curlier; curliest
1
: tending to curl
also : having curls
curly hair
2
: having the grain composed of fibers that undulate without crossing and that often form alternating light and dark lines
curly maple
curliness noun

Examples of curly in a Sentence

She has curly hair and blue eyes. The dog's tail is curly.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In just five years, Pattern has created a unique space in premium hair care, specifically for the curly, coily, and tight-textured community, building its own legacy with exceptional products. Billee Howard, Forbes.com, 4 May 2025 The wig features a consistently shoulder-length cut, and its curly texture adds a charming touch. Noel Cymone Walker, StyleCaster, 2 May 2025 The chain offering burgers, chicken sandwiches and curly fries is the latest to shrink its footprint amid inflationary pressures and high labor costs. Caroline Petrow-Cohen, Los Angeles Times, 24 Apr. 2025 Those with curlier, thicker, or tighter textures may want to consider a blow-dry or silk press to maintain the shape. Jacqueline Kilikita, Refinery29, 1 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for curly

Word History

First Known Use

1598, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of curly was in 1598

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Cite this Entry

“Curly.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/curly. Accessed 21 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

curly

adjective
curlier; curliest
: tending to curl
also : having curls
curly hair
curliness noun

More from Merriam-Webster on curly

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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