frizz

1 of 3

verb (1)

frizzed; frizzing; frizzes

transitive verb

: to form into small tight curls

intransitive verb

of hair : to form a mass of tight curls

frizz

2 of 3

noun

1
: a tight curl
2
: hair that is tightly curled

frizz

3 of 3

verb (2)

frizzed; frizzing; frizzes

transitive verb

: to fry or sear with a sizzling noise

Examples of frizz in a Sentence

Noun She used gel on her hair to control the frizz. a photograph of a 1920s flapper with that trademark frizz on the forehead
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.
Verb
Her hair was teased and frizzed well above her head like a lion’s mane. Kaleigh Werner, Footwear News, 25 July 2025 Whether your strands are pin-straight, wavy, or prone to frizz, the dryers ahead have passed our performance test, leaving hair looking healthy, bouncy, and beautifully styled without the guesswork. Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 5 July 2025
Noun
This conditioner is designed as the next step in your routine and is formulated with grapeseed oil and olive oil for their ultra-nourishing properties and ability to reduce frizz. Jessie Quinn, StyleCaster, 4 Aug. 2025 Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine Anti-Frizz Serum Having dry hair seems like a recipe for instant frizz when combined with humidity. Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 11 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for frizz

Word History

Etymology

Verb (1)

French friser

Verb (2)

alteration of fry entry 1

First Known Use

Verb (1)

1660, in the meaning defined at transitive sense

Noun

1668, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Verb (2)

1835, in the meaning defined at transitive sense

Time Traveler
The first known use of frizz was in 1660

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Cite this Entry

“Frizz.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/frizz. Accessed 19 Aug. 2025.

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