WordGarden.iodreadlock
Pronunciation
UK
- /ˈdrɛdlɒk/noun
US
- /ˈdrɛdˌlɑk/noun
Meanings
Noun
a ropelike lock of hair worn as part of a dreadlocks hairstyle
Verb
to form hair into dreadlocks or become arranged in dreadlocks
Beyond the definition
A dreadlock is more than just a hair style; it is often tied to culture, spirituality, and identity. Picture a section of hair that has not been combed or brushed, so it slowly twists and mats together into a rope-like shape. That is the basic idea. This style has appeared in many cultures, from ancient Egypt and India to Ethiopia and Jamaica, and it has often carried special meaning.
The term "dreadlocks" became widely known through the Rastafarian movement, where they were seen as a sign of resistance to social rules and a connection to African roots. Today, people wear them for personal, cultural, or spiritual reasons, but their history still matters. You might see someone wearing dreadlocks or read about the history of dreadlocks in different cultures.
A dreadlock is a section of hair that has been deliberately matted and formed into a rope-like strand. This happens when the hair is not combed or brushed, allowing it to tangle and lock over time. While dreadlocks are often associated with the Rastafarian movement, where they hold deep spiritual and cultural significance and represent a connection to African heritage and resistance to oppression, similar hairstyles have existed in various forms across many cultures throughout history.
Evidence of similar hairstyles can be found in ancient civilizations like Egypt, Greece, Rome, and India, often linked to religious practices or social status. In Jamaica, the Rastafarian movement popularized them in the mid-20th century, giving rise to the term "dreadlocks," which originally carried a negative connotation but was reclaimed as a symbol of pride and identity.
Today, dreadlocks are worn by people from many walks of life for personal, cultural, or spiritual reasons. It is important to approach the topic with sensitivity and respect, because for many people they represent more than just a hairstyle: they can express heritage, belief, and personal identity. You might read about the symbolism behind dreadlocks in Rastafarian culture, see someone styling their dreadlocks with beads or wraps, or discuss cultural appropriation concerns when this hairstyle is worn outside the cultures most closely connected to it.
The process of creating dreadlocks can vary—from allowing them to form naturally to using techniques like backcombing or twisting—and requires dedicated maintenance. Ultimately, dreadlocks are a powerful visual statement with a rich and complex history.
Examples
- 1
Hairstyle
She has had dreadlocks for years.
- 2
Loose lock
One dreadlock near his neck had come loose, so he fixed it in the mirror.
- 3
Hair styling
The stylist showed him how to start dreadlocks on short hair.
- Phrasestart dreadlocks
begin forming them
See also
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- dreadlocknoun