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
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.
Regular trims are also essential to prevent split ends and manage volume. Kaitlyn Yarborough, Southern Living, 16 June 2026 In April, she was named the face of their Keraphix line, which treats color damage, frizz, and split ends. Hannah Malach, InStyle, 5 June 2026 The oil can be used as a pre-shampoo treatment to hydrate the scalp, and it can also be used to tame flyaways and smooth split ends. Jenny Berg, Vogue, 27 May 2026 His movement skill doesn’t reflect a split end. Barry Jackson, Miami Herald, 8 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for split end

Word History

First Known Use

1955, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of split end was in 1955

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Cite this Entry

“Split end.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/split%20end. Accessed 22 Jun. 2026.

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