epilator: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Formal/Technical
Quick answer
What does “epilator” mean?
A handheld electrical device used for removing hair from the body by mechanically grasping and pulling out multiple hairs at once.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A handheld electrical device used for removing hair from the body by mechanically grasping and pulling out multiple hairs at once.
Any device, including manual spring-based tweezers, designed for removing hair by the root from a larger surface area of skin.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant lexical difference; the same device is referred to identically.
Connotations
Neutral and technical in both varieties. The word is considered formal and product-specific.
Frequency
Slightly more common in British English advertising and product descriptions, but the difference is marginal.
Grammar
How to Use “epilator” in a Sentence
N (for + NP)N + V (to remove hair)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “epilator” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- She epilates her legs weekly.
- I prefer to epilate rather than shave.
American English
- She epilates her legs every week.
- I'd rather epilate than deal with razor burn.
adverb
British English
- No standard adverbial form in common use.
American English
- No standard adverbial form in common use.
adjective
British English
- The epilation process can be uncomfortable at first.
- She bought a new epilating head for her device.
American English
- The epilation process can be painful initially.
- She purchased a new epilating attachment for her unit.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used in marketing and sales for beauty and personal care products.
Academic
Rarely used outside of specific studies in dermatology or cosmetology.
Everyday
Used in conversations about beauty routines, grooming, and product recommendations.
Technical
Precise term in cosmetology, dermatology, and product design/manufacturing.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “epilator”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “epilator”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “epilator”
- Pronouncing it as /iːpɪleɪtər/ (long 'e').
- Using 'epilator' to mean a person who performs hair removal (the correct term is 'epilation technician' or 'beautician').
- Confusing 'epilator' with 'electrolysis device', which uses a different (chemical/electrical) method.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, it can cause discomfort or pain, especially for first-time users, as it pulls hairs out from the root. The sensation often lessens with regular use.
An epilator pulls hair out from the root, leading to slower regrowth (weeks). An electric shaver cuts hair at the skin's surface, leading to regrowth in days.
Yes, epilators are used by anyone wishing to remove body hair. Specific models may be marketed for 'body' or 'face' use.
No, it is not permanent hair removal like electrolysis or laser. Hair will regrow, but it typically takes several weeks and may grow back finer over time.
A handheld electrical device used for removing hair from the body by mechanically grasping and pulling out multiple hairs at once.
Epilator is usually formal/technical in register.
Epilator: in British English it is pronounced /ˈɛp.ɪ.leɪ.tər/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈɛp.ə.leɪ.t̬ɚ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “No common idioms”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'EPI' (meaning 'on' as in epidermis, the skin layer) and 'LATOR' (sounds like 'later', as hair grows back later). An epilator works on the skin and the hair comes back later.
Conceptual Metaphor
HAIR IS A WEED (it is 'pulled out' by the root).
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary mechanism of an epilator?