curl
kurl
Curl (noun) means a spiral or ring-shaped lock of hair. Example: “Her hair fell in loose curls around her shoulders.”
noun
1
A spiral or ring-shaped lock of hair.
"Her hair fell in loose curls around her shoulders."
2
An exercise where the arm is bent against resistance to work the biceps.
"He did three sets of bicep curls at the gym."
verb
1
To twist something into a spiral shape, or to naturally form one.
"Smoke curled up from the chimney."
"She curled her hair before the party."
How to use curl
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo twist into a spiral shape, or a spiral shape itself — as in hair, smoke, or a gym exercise.
Common pairings
curl your hair
bicep curl
curl up
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Word forms
- Plural
- curls
- Third person singular
- curls
- Past tense
- curled
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Her hair fell in loose _____ around her shoulders.
Etymology
From an older Middle English word meaning "curled" or "curly," likely related to a Middle Dutch word for "curl."
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for curl
See all rhymes for curl →Frequently asked questions
What does “curl” mean?
The word “curl” means a spiral or ring-shaped lock of hair. In plain terms, to twist into a spiral shape, or a spiral shape itself — as in hair, smoke, or a gym exercise.
How do you pronounce “curl”?
“Curl” is pronounced kurl (/kɜɹl/ in IPA).
How do you use “curl” in a sentence?
Here is “curl” used in a sentence: “Her hair fell in loose curls around her shoulders.”
What is the opposite of “curl”?
The opposite of “curl” — its antonyms — are extension, straighten, uncoil and unroll.
What part of speech is “curl”?
Depending on how it is used, “curl” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “curl” come from?
The word “curl” comes from Middle English. From an older Middle English word meaning "curled" or "curly," likely related to a Middle Dutch word for "curl.".
Is “curl” a common word?
“Curl” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “curl” have?
“Curl” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a spiral or ring-shaped lock of hair.
