feathercut
LowSpecialized, dated
Definition
Meaning
A hairstyle characterised by layers of hair cut at different lengths, creating a soft, feathery texture.
A method of cutting hair where the scissors are held at an angle to the hair, producing tapered, textured ends.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
Primarily a hairstyling term from the late 20th century. Can also refer to the specific cutting technique used to achieve the style.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant spelling or meaning differences. The term is understood in both varieties but is not common in contemporary usage.
Connotations
Often evokes a 1970s or 1980s aesthetic. May be considered a slightly old-fashioned or specific salon term.
Frequency
Equally low frequency in both UK and US English.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
[Subject] + has/got + a feathercut[Stylist] + gave + [Client] + a feathercutVocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Usage
Context Usage
Everyday
She went to the salon and came back with a lovely feathercut.
Technical
The stylist used a feathercut technique to remove weight and add movement.
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- The hairdresser will feathercut the ends to soften the line.
American English
- She asked the stylist to feathercut her layers for more volume.
adjective
British English
- She sported a trendy feathercut look.
American English
- The feathercut style was popular in vintage magazines.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- My mum has a feathercut.
- I'm thinking of getting a feathercut to make my hair lighter.
- The stylist recommended a feathercut to add texture and body to my fine hair.
- While the classic 70s feathercut has fallen out of fashion, its modern, deconstructed variants remain popular on the runway.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a bird's FEATHER - light and layered. A FEATHERCUT creates hair that is light and layered like feathers.
Conceptual Metaphor
HAIR IS A FEATHER (light, soft, layered)
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Avoid direct translation "перо + резать". Use specific terms like "слоистая стрижка" or "градуировка".
Common Mistakes
- Spelling as 'feather cut' (two words) is common but the closed compound 'feathercut' is standard.
- Confusing it with a 'fringe' (bangs) or 'feathering' as a painting technique.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary characteristic of a feathercut?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
A feathercut is a specific type of layered cut where the ends are cut at an angle to be wispy and soft, unlike blunt layers.
It often suits oval and heart-shaped faces well, as the soft layers can help to balance stronger jawlines or widen narrow faces.
Yes, but the technique must be adapted. On curly hair, feathercutting (or point-cutting) is often used to shape and remove bulk without creating a frizzy outline.
It is less common as a specific style name but the 'feathercutting' technique (point-cutting/texturizing) is still a standard part of a stylist's skill set.