split end

noun

1

: an offensive football end who lines up usually several yards to the side of the formation

2

: a hair tip that has become frayed (as from dryness)

—usually used in plural

Examples of split end in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Whether hair is bleached, color treated, or frequently heat styled, this formula aims to minimize breakage, reduce frizz, and smooth the appearance of split ends for a healthier-looking finish. —Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 23 Jan. 2026

The products themselves have robust clinical validation across the range, including a 419 percent increase in protein bonding strength, 46 percent improvement in internal hair density, 30 percent increase in tensile strength and 32 percent reduction in split ends. —James Manso, Footwear News, 20 Jan. 2026

Trimming away split ends and keeping the length uniform all the way around lets the hair's health shine through. —Elise Tabin, InStyle, 14 Jan. 2026

Hydrolyzed rice protein helps defend against split ends, while sea buckthorn oil and squalane cushion the cuticle, so strengthening does not lead to stiffness. —Jailynn Taylor, Allure, 31 Dec. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1955, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for split end

• amend
• append
• ascend
• attend
• backend
• befriend
• boyfriend
• commend
• compend
• contend
• defend
• depend