hair follicle

noun

: the tubular epithelial sheath that surrounds the lower part of the hair shaft and encloses at the bottom a vascular papilla supplying the growing basal part of the hair with nourishment see hair illustration

Examples of hair follicle in a Sentence

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 terms of benefits, exosomes assist with collagen regeneration, reducing acne scars, wound healing, hyperpigmentation, and hair follicle stimulation. Essence, 29 Sep. 2025 At the same time, nutrient-rich botanicals like sacha inchi and morete oil deeply hydrate hair follicles, leaving strands feeling nourished, balanced, and revitalized. Jenny Berg, Vogue, 24 Sep. 2025 Poliosis — Localized patches of white hair due to a reduction or absence of melanin in hair follicles. Scott Lafee, San Diego Union-Tribune, 23 Sep. 2025 Taking minoxidil orally can support the hair follicle cycle and trigger anagen (the resting phase) prematurely. Jessie Quinn, Flow Space, 23 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for hair follicle

Word History

First Known Use

1838, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of hair follicle was in 1838

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Hair follicle.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hair%20follicle. Accessed 5 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

hair follicle

noun
: the tube-shaped sheath surrounding the lower part of a hair shaft

Medical Definition

hair follicle

noun
: the tubular epithelial sheath that surrounds the lower part of the hair shaft and encloses at the bottom a vascular papilla supplying the growing basal part of the hair with nourishment

More from Merriam-Webster on hair follicle

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!