curly

adjective

ˈkər-lē 

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

Synonyms of curly

• curled
• wavy

Examples of curly in a Sentence

She has curly hair and blue eyes.

The dog's tail is curly.

Recent Examples on the Web

Most of the brand’s launch campaigns have featured a range of straight, wavy, curly, and coily types; in 2024, its AirWash Dry Shampoo launch campaign included a model with braids. — Ava Welsing-Kitcher, Allure, 24 Aug. 2026

Those with curly hair should pay particular attention to the length and placement of their layers. — Laura Solla, Vogue, 24 Aug. 2026

His notes also might ask for a character’s hair to be more curly, or that a filter needs to be changed. — Laurie Brookins, HollywoodReporter, 21 Aug. 2026

On a trip to UC Irvine for orientation with her son, one flew into her long, curly hair. — Lila Seidman, Los Angeles Times, 18 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1598, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing curly

• curly brace
• curly bracket
• curly-coated retriever
• curly endive
• curly top

Rhymes for curly

• burley
• burly
• girlie
• girly
• hurly
• pearly
• surly

Kids Definition

curly

adjective

ˈkər-lē 

curlier; curliest

: tending to curl

also : having curls

curly hair

curliness noun