barrette
Low-frequencyEveryday (but object-specific); slightly formal term for the item.
Definition
Meaning
A small, decorative clip or clasp for holding a person's hair in place.
While primarily a hair accessory, the term can sometimes be used metaphorically or in design contexts to describe any small, decorative clasping mechanism with a similar shape.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
Specifically denotes a hair clip that typically pinches the hair between two hinged sides. The word often implies a decorative element, not merely a functional grip.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The word 'barrette' is standard in American English. In British English, the more common everyday terms are 'hair slide' or simply 'clip'. 'Barrette' is understood in the UK but is less frequent and may be perceived as a somewhat technical or American term.
Connotations
In AmE, it is the standard, neutral term. In BrE, using 'barrette' might sound slightly precise or influenced by AmE media.
Frequency
Very common in AmE; low to moderate frequency in BrE, where 'hair slide' is dominant.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
[Subject] + wear + [Determiner] + barrette[Subject] + clip/fasten + [Determiner] + barrette + in/to + [Possessive] + hair[Determiner] + barrette + made of + [Material]Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “No common idioms feature this word.”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Used in retail (fashion, accessories), e.g., 'Our summer line features floral-print barrettes.'
Academic
Rare, except perhaps in historical or material culture studies discussing fashion items.
Everyday
The primary context: discussing personal grooming, children's accessories, or lost items. 'She's looking for a barrette to hold her fringe back.'
Technical
Used in manufacturing or product design specifications for hair accessories.
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- Not used as a verb.
American English
- Not used as a verb.
adverb
British English
- Not used as an adverb.
American English
- Not used as an adverb.
adjective
British English
- Not used as an adjective.
American English
- Not used as an adjective.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- She has a pink barrette in her hair.
- I lost my favourite barrette.
- The little girl chose a barrette with a butterfly on it.
- Can you help me clip this barrette? It keeps slipping.
- The vintage barrette, though tarnished, was clearly made of silver.
- Her hairstyle was simple, secured at the nape with an elegant tortoiseshell barrette.
- The designer's collection featured barrettes that functioned as miniature sculptural pieces, blurring the line between accessory and art.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a small, fancy BAR (the clip part) that you SET or place in your hair. BAR + SETte = BARRETTE.
Conceptual Metaphor
A BARRIETTE IS A DECORATIVE JAW/CLAMP (it 'bites' or holds the hair).
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Do not confuse with 'barett' (берёт) which is a type of flat cap.
- The Russian direct equivalent 'заколка' is a broader term for any hairpin/clip; 'barrette' is specifically a clasping clip.
Common Mistakes
- Spelling: 'barette' (missing an 'r').
- Pronunciation: /ˈbær.ɪt/ (incorrect stress on first syllable).
- Using it as a general term for all hairpins (e.g., bobby pins).
Practice
Quiz
In which variety of English is the word 'barrette' the most common and neutral term for the item?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. A barrette is typically a larger, decorative clasp that pinches a section of hair. A bobby pin is a small, plain, U-shaped metal pin used for securing hair close to the head.
The most common term in British English is 'hair slide'. The word 'clip' is also widely used. 'Barrette' is understood but is less common.
While traditionally associated with women's and children's hair, barrettes can be worn by anyone with hair long enough to be clipped. Simpler, less decorative designs are more common in men's fashion.
The word comes from French, where 'barrette' originally meant a small bar or clasp. It entered English in the early 20th century.