comb
6 synonyms for comb, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A flat toothed tool used for untangling, styling, or holding hair in place.
Synonyms
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Synonyms by Meaning
1. noun
A flat toothed tool used for untangling, styling, or holding hair in place.
“She ran a comb through her wet hair before leaving the house.”
2. verb
To groom hair or fur with a comb.
“He combed his hair flat before the interview.”
How to use comb
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
comb through
comb your hair
honeycomb
Etymology
From Old English camb, ultimately from a Proto-Indo-European root meaning "tooth" — the same root behind the word "cam" in mechanics.
Full origin of comb →Frequently asked questions
What does “comb” mean?
The word “comb” means a flat toothed tool used for untangling, styling, or holding hair in place. In plain terms, a toothed tool for hair, a rooster's crest, or (as a verb) to search something carefully and thoroughly.
How do you pronounce “comb”?
“Comb” is pronounced kohm (/koʊm/ in IPA).
How do you use “comb” in a sentence?
Here is “comb” used in a sentence: “She ran a comb through her wet hair before leaving the house.”
What part of speech is “comb”?
Depending on how it is used, “comb” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “comb” come from?
The word “comb” comes from Old English. From Old English camb, ultimately from a Proto-Indo-European root meaning "tooth" — the same root behind the word "cam" in mechanics.
Is “comb” a common word?
“Comb” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.
How many meanings does “comb” have?
“Comb” has 5 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a flat toothed tool used for untangling, styling, or holding hair in place.
