comb back: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Descriptive, sometimes historical/fashion-specific.
Quick answer
What does “comb back” mean?
A hairstyle where hair is pulled back from the forehead, typically held with a comb or similar accessory.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A hairstyle where hair is pulled back from the forehead, typically held with a comb or similar accessory.
A method or style of managing hair by sweeping it backwards, away from the face, sometimes with a specific part. Can also refer to a comb used at the back of a hairstyle or a decorative element in historic furniture (a "comb-back chair").
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No major semantic difference. "Comb back" is used similarly in both varieties. The furniture term "comb-back Windsor chair" is recognized in both, but may be slightly more common in UK antique descriptions.
Connotations
Neutral in both varieties. In fashion, may imply a classic, polished, or vintage look.
Frequency
Low-to-medium frequency in both, limited to specific domains (hairstyling, antiques).
Grammar
How to Use “comb back” in a Sentence
[Verb] + (hair) + into a comb back[Adjective] + comb backwear + [Determiner] + hair + in a comb backVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “comb back” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- I'll just comb my hair back quickly.
- He combed his fringe back with his fingers.
American English
- She combed her hair back into a neat ponytail.
- Just comb it back and use some gel.
adverb
British English
- Not a standard adverbial form.
American English
- Not a standard adverbial form.
adjective
British English
- She favoured a sleek, comb-back style for formal events.
- The auction featured a rare 18th-century comb-back Windsor chair.
American English
- The comb-back look gives a clean, professional appearance.
- They restored the paint on the antique comb-back rocking chair.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare, except potentially in fashion retail or salon management.
Academic
Rare; possible in history of design (furniture) or cultural studies (fashion).
Everyday
Used when discussing hairstyles, grooming, or describing antique furniture.
Technical
Used in hairdressing manuals, barbering, and antique furniture catalogues.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “comb back”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “comb back”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “comb back”
- Using 'comb back' as a single-word verb ("I combback my hair") – it's a noun phrase. Confusing it with 'backcomb' (teasing hair for volume). Writing as one word: 'combback'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
"Comb back" is primarily used as a noun phrase (e.g., 'a comb back'). The action is described with the verb 'comb' plus the adverb 'back' (e.g., 'to comb one's hair back').
They are very similar. 'Slick back' often implies the use of a product (gel, pomade) for a very shiny, tight hold. 'Comb back' is a more general term for the style, which can be sleek or looser.
It's a type of Windsor chair where the top rail of the back is shaped into a continuous, high curve with multiple spindles, resembling the teeth of a comb. It's a historical furniture design.
No, it should be written as two separate words, or hyphenated when used as a compound adjective before a noun (e.g., a comb-back style).
A hairstyle where hair is pulled back from the forehead, typically held with a comb or similar accessory.
Comb back is usually descriptive, sometimes historical/fashion-specific. in register.
Comb back: in British English it is pronounced /ˈkəʊm ˌbæk/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈkoʊm ˌbæk/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Not applicable.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a COMB pushing your hair BACK from your face. Picture a classic film star with sleek hair combed back.
Conceptual Metaphor
CONTROL IS PULLING BACK (The act of combing hair back suggests order, discipline, and a managed appearance).
Practice
Quiz
In which context might you hear 'comb back' used technically?