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natty dread

What does natty dread mean?

A Rastafarian with dreadlocks; 'natty' refers to the natural, knotted hair. Title of a 1975 Bob Marley album.

"Natty dread deh 'pon di corner a reason."

Origin

Jamaican Patois: 'natty' (knotty/natural) + 'dread'.

Frequently asked questions

What does 'natty dread' mean?
It refers to a Rastafarian with dreadlocks, where 'natty' describes the natural, knotted hair.
Is 'natty dread' connected to Bob Marley?
Yes — 'Natty Dread' is the title of Bob Marley and the Wailers' 1975 album, which helped popularise the phrase.
What does 'natty' mean in 'natty dread'?
'Natty' means knotty or natural, referring to the untreated, matted locks worn by Rastas.
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Slang definitions: FreeDict original editorial.