catagen

noun

cat·​a·​gen ˈka-tə-ˌjen How to pronounce catagen (audio)
: a short transitional phase of the hair growth cycle between anagen and telogen that usually lasts between 10 to 20 days and during which the lower portion of the hair follicle regresses and hair growth ends
In catagen, the hair follicle stops producing the fiber and regresses, shrinking dramatically.Damaris Christensen

Examples of catagen in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web After the anagen growth phase, the lashes enter a 15-day catagen phase, in which the eyelashes stop growing before entering the third and final telogen (or resting) phase. Lindsay Modglin, Health, 22 June 2023

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'catagen.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

cata- + -gen

First Known Use

1926, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of catagen was in 1926

Dictionary Entries Near catagen

Cite this Entry

“Catagen.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/catagen. Accessed 7 Dec. 2023.

Medical Definition

catagen

noun
cat·​a·​gen ˈka-tə-ˌjen How to pronounce catagen (audio)
: a short transitional phase of the hair growth cycle between anagen and telogen that usually lasts between 10 to 20 days and during which the lower portion of the hair follicle regresses and hair growth ends
Anagen is followed by a regressive stage called catagen, of about two to three weeks, then a resting stage, telogen, of about three months.C. Claiborne Ray
In catagen, the hair follicle stops producing the fiber and regresses, shrinking dramatically.Damaris Christensen
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