cornrow: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Neutral/Informal
Quick answer
What does “cornrow” mean?
A hairstyle in which hair is tightly braided in straight rows close to the scalp, resembling lines of corn planted in a field.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A hairstyle in which hair is tightly braided in straight rows close to the scalp, resembling lines of corn planted in a field.
The hairstyle itself; the act of styling hair in this manner; sometimes used more broadly to refer to any tight, scalp-hugging braiding style, though this is less accurate.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The term is understood in both varieties, but the hairstyle and practice have stronger historical and cultural roots in African American and Caribbean communities, making it more frequent in American English contexts.
Connotations
Primarily associated with Black hair culture and style. In both varieties, it carries cultural significance beyond a simple hairstyle description.
Frequency
More commonly used in American English due to its cultural prevalence. In British English, it is understood but may be less frequent in general conversation outside relevant communities.
Grammar
How to Use “cornrow” in a Sentence
to have/get + cornrowsto wear + cornrowsto style/braid + hair + into cornrowsVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “cornrow” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- She decided to have her hair cornrowed for the summer holidays.
- The salon specialises in cornrowing all types of hair.
American English
- I'm going to get my hair cornrowed before the trip.
- She expertly cornrowed her little sister's hair in under an hour.
adverb
British English
- Not applicable. No standard adverbial form.
American English
- Not applicable. No standard adverbial form.
adjective
British English
- She showcased a stunning cornrow braiding pattern.
- The cornrow style has seen a resurgence in popularity.
American English
- His cornrow look was sharp and well-maintained.
- Cornrow braids can be styled in countless creative patterns.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare, except perhaps in fashion, beauty, or hair care industries.
Academic
Can appear in anthropological, cultural studies, or fashion history contexts discussing hair, identity, or African diaspora cultures.
Everyday
Common in discussions about personal style, hairdressing, and cultural expression.
Technical
Used in cosmetology and hairdressing to describe a specific braiding technique.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “cornrow”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “cornrow”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “cornrow”
- Using 'cornrow' as a verb without the 's' (incorrect: 'I will cornrow my hair'; correct: 'I will get cornrows' or 'I will have my hair cornrowed').
- Confusing cornrows with other braided styles like box braids or individual braids that are not attached to the scalp in continuous rows.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Cornrows are a specific type of braid. All cornrows are braids, but not all braids are cornrows. Cornrows are distinct because they are braided flat against the scalp in continuous, raised rows.
With proper care, cornrows can typically last from two to eight weeks. Duration depends on hair type, growth rate, and maintenance (like covering them with a silk scarf at night).
While technically possible, the hairstyle originates from and holds deep cultural significance within Black communities. Wearing it without understanding this context can be seen as cultural appropriation. It's important to be respectful of its origins.
'Canerows' is a term used primarily in the Caribbean and the UK, synonymous with 'cornrows'. The 'cane' refers to sugarcane rows, similar to the 'corn' metaphor, highlighting the agricultural inspiration of the style's appearance.
A hairstyle in which hair is tightly braided in straight rows close to the scalp, resembling lines of corn planted in a field.
Cornrow is usually neutral/informal in register.
Cornrow: in British English it is pronounced /ˈkɔːn.rəʊ/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈkɔːrn.roʊ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None directly associated.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Picture rows of corn in a field, then imagine those neat, straight rows braided tightly against someone's scalp.
Conceptual Metaphor
THE SCALP IS A FIELD (with hair being planted/cultivated in straight rows).
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary visual metaphor behind the term 'cornrow'?