dreadlocks

[dred-loks]

noun

(used with a plural verb)

1. a hairstyle, especially among Rastafarians, in which the hair is worn in long, ropelike locks.

dreadlocks

/ ˈdrɛdˌlɒks /

plural noun

1. hair worn in the Rastafarian style of long matted or tightly curled strands

Word History and Origins

Origin of dreadlocks¹

First recorded in 1955–60; dread + lock ² + -s ³

Example Sentences

The trailer saw the Mysterious Girl singer donning long dreadlocks and speaking in a Jamaican accent, which led to criticism from some viewers.

From BBC

The first major bathing day, Tuesday, will see ash-smeared naked Hindu holy men with matted dreadlocks, known as Naga sadhus, take a dip in the northern Indian city at dawn.

From BBC

Officials suspended Darryl George, 19, last August, saying his dreadlocks violated the dress code.

From BBC

Mr Njuguna says he thought his friend was profiled by the officer who shot him because he had dreadlocks.

From BBC

He is "depressed", his lawyer George Musisi told BBC News, and having to cut off the dreadlocks he spent 17 years growing is one of the main reasons.

From BBC

Related Words

• braid 
• haircut 
• hairdo 
• headdress 
• ponytail