dandruff

noun

dan·​druff ˈdan-drəf 

: scaly white or grayish flakes of dead skin cells especially of the scalp

also : the condition marked by excessive shedding of such flakes and usually accompanied by itching

dandruffy

ˈdan-drə-fē 

adjective

Examples of dandruff in a Sentence

The shampoo is supposed to help control dandruff.

Recent Examples on the Web

This type of fungus is linked to dandruff and other fungal infections that can affect the scalp. —Carley Millhone, Health, 23 Apr. 2025

In addition to fighting dandruff, the formula is recommended for giving fine, thinning hair a boost. —Ariel Wodarcyk, Glamour, 23 Apr. 2025

Botanical extracts balance the scalp’s microbiome and treat dandruff. —Jenny Berg, Vogue, 4 Feb. 2025

What impressed me the most, though, was the shampoo's ability to dial down my typically itchy scalp—and free my shoulders of the telltale dandruff dust. —Allure Editors, Allure, 19 Nov. 2024

Word History

Etymology

probably from dand- (origin unknown) + -ruff, from Middle English rove scabby condition, from Old Norse hrūfa scab; akin to Old High German hruf scurf, Lithuanian kraupus rough

First Known Use

1545, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing dandruff

• anti-dandruff

Kids Definition

dandruff

noun

dan·​druff ˈdan-drəf 

: scaly white or grayish flakes of dead skin cells especially of the scalp

also : the condition marked by the excessive shedding of such flakes

Medical Definition

dandruff

noun

dan·​druff ˈdan-drəf 

: scaly white or grayish flakes of dead skin cells especially of the scalp

also : the condition marked by excessive shedding of such flakes and usually accompanied by itching

dandruffy

-ē 

adjective