frizzy

adjective \ ˈfri-zē \

Updated on: 22 Apr 2018

Definition of frizzy

frizzier; frizziest

of hair

: not smooth and neat because individual shafts are variably wavy and do not align together

When hair is frizzy or damaged, its outer cover, or cuticle, is riddled with lifted or missing sections that allow the hair's inner cortex to soak up hair-swelling moisture.
—Victoria Clayton

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frizziness

noun

See frizzy defined for kids

Recent Examples of frizzy from the Web

Nayeon initially portrays Hathaway's awkward, nerdy character -- complete with big glasses and frizzy hair -- before later transforming into princess mode with slick hair and perfect makeup.

— jeff benjamin, Billboard, "Breaking Down the Movie References in TWICE's 'What Is Love?' Video," 12 Apr. 2018
Shooting hot air directly on to your hair is the quickest way to damage your strands and turn your crown into a big, frizzy puffball.

— joane amay, Allure, "13 Common Mistakes People With Curly Hair Make — and How to Avoid Them," 2 Apr. 2018
DTae’ has a boyish face with a frizzy shock of black hair, an easy confidence and a capacity for producing remarkably transparent free-throw reactions.

— chris johnson, SI.com, "Devonte' Graham's Winding Road to Becoming Kansas's Steadying Force," 29 Mar. 2018
The reference seemed undeniable, as Lively's hair was brushed to frizzy perfection with a deep side part—all the better to show off her exaggerated hoops and pared-down black bustier dress with spaghetti straps (also quintessential Carrie).

— calin van paris, Vogue, "Blake Lively Steps Out with a New Lion's Mane of Curls in Los Angeles," 14 Mar. 2018
The woman with frizzy blond hair was taken to her first pornographic movie by a date.

— alexis soloski, New York Times, "Review: In the Mood for ‘Prurience’? Speak Up," 21 Mar. 2018
The women in frizzy wigs clump around, commanded by a frizzier queen (Sofiane Sylve), while a novice (Maria Kochetkova) mates with and massacres her prey.

— allan ulrich, San Francisco Chronicle, "The magic of Jerome Robbins’ choreography comes to life at SF Ballet," 21 Mar. 2018
The ex-nanny’s eyes were closed, with frizzy hair splayed around her head.

— corinne ramey, WSJ, "Defense in Nanny Case Highlights Her Condition After Killings," 15 Mar. 2018
Kérastase Bain Fluidealiste Have curly or frizzy hair?

— wendy sy, Allure, "14 of the Best Sulfate-Shampoos on the Market," 22 Feb. 2018

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'frizzy.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.