henna: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
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Quick answer
What does “henna” mean?
A reddish-brown dye obtained from the leaves of a tropical shrub, used to colour hair, skin, and fabrics.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A reddish-brown dye obtained from the leaves of a tropical shrub, used to colour hair, skin, and fabrics.
The plant (Lawsonia inermis) from which the dye is derived; the practice of applying this dye for body art; the resulting reddish-brown colour.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant lexical differences. Pronunciation differs slightly (see IPA).
Connotations
In both varieties, strongly associated with South Asian, Middle Eastern, and North African cultures, weddings, festivals (e.g., Eid, Diwali), and temporary body art.
Frequency
Similar frequency, slightly higher in UK due to larger South Asian diaspora.
Grammar
How to Use “henna” in a Sentence
She hennaed her hair.They applied henna to their hands.The design was done in henna.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “henna” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- She decided to henna her hair for the summer.
- My aunt hennas her hands before every Eid.
American English
- She hennaed her hair a reddish-brown.
- They're hennaing designs for the festival.
adverb
British English
- (Rarely used as an adverb.)
American English
- (Rarely used as an adverb.)
adjective
British English
- She wore a beautiful henna bracelet design.
- The henna paste needs to dry completely.
American English
- Her henna tattoo lasted two weeks.
- He sells henna cones online.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
In contexts of beauty, cosmetics, or cultural goods export/import.
Academic
In anthropology, cultural studies, or botany texts.
Everyday
Discussing hair dye, wedding preparations, or festival traditions.
Technical
In cosmetic chemistry or ethnobotany.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “henna”
- Incorrect plural: 'hennas' (usually uncountable).
- Misspelling: 'hena', 'hennah'.
- Using 'henna' as a verb incorrectly: 'I will henna you' instead of 'I will apply henna for you'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, henna is a semi-permanent dye. On skin, it stains the top layers and fades in 1-3 weeks. On hair, it gradually fades over several weeks.
'Henna' refers to the dye powder or plant. 'Mehndi' (Hindi/Urdu) specifically refers to the art of applying henna designs to the body, especially for celebrations.
Pure, natural henna (lawsonia) is generally safe. Reactions are usually caused by additives like paraphenylenediamine (PPD) found in 'black henna'.
Henna powder is mixed with an acidic liquid (like lemon juice or tea), and essential oils (like eucalyptus or lavender) to release the dye. It is then left to rest for several hours before use.
A reddish-brown dye obtained from the leaves of a tropical shrub, used to colour hair, skin, and fabrics.
Henna is usually neutral in register.
Henna: in British English it is pronounced /ˈhɛnə/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈhɛnə/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Not commonly used idiomatically.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
HENNA has an 'E' for 'earth' (natural dye) and double 'N' like the two lines often drawn in a henna pattern.
Conceptual Metaphor
HENNA IS TRADITION / HENNA IS CELEBRATION (e.g., 'Her hands were covered in celebration').
Practice
Quiz
Which of the following is the primary source of henna?