dandruff

noun

dan·​druff ˈdan-drəf How to pronounce dandruff (audio)
: scaly white or grayish flakes of dead skin cells especially of the scalp
also : the condition marked by excessive shedding of such flakes and usually accompanied by itching
dandruffy adjective

Examples of dandruff in a Sentence

The shampoo is supposed to help control dandruff.
Recent Examples on the Web The unique formulation helps prevent dandruff, which is a welcome feature for anyone prone to flakiness. Sherri Gordon, Verywell Health, 16 Feb. 2024 With dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis is localized to the scalp. USA TODAY, 24 Jan. 2024 Head spas claim that scalp treatments promote circulation and detoxify, calm and hydrate skin, all of which help prevent dandruff, itchiness, dryness, inflammation and hair loss. Deborah Vankin, Los Angeles Times, 21 Feb. 2024 Like the brand’s famed Treatment Serum, this shampoo is enriched with argan oil for its ultra-nourishing properties that help combat frizz, keep dandruff at bay, and protect against damage. Jessie Quinn, Peoplemag, 15 Feb. 2024 Brickell Men's Products Daily Strengthening Shampoo for Men This shampoo from Brickell is created to help reduce dandruff, tackle that dry look with a moisturized shine, and keep that greasy look at bay. Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 2 Feb. 2024 But that isn’t all—some hair oils even have therapeutic benefits, helping alleviate irritated scalp skin and reducing flaky dandruff. Addison Aloian, Women's Health, 28 Aug. 2023 The obvious signs of dandruff are scales or painful itching. Lacey Muinos, Health, 20 June 2023 The formula is designed to combat dandruff by restoring the microbes that prevent this skin condition. Madison Yauger, Peoplemag, 9 Feb. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'dandruff.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

probably from dand- (origin unknown) + -ruff, from Middle English rove scabby condition, from Old Norse hrūfa scab; akin to Old High German hruf scurf, Lithuanian kraupus rough

First Known Use

1545, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of dandruff was in 1545

Dictionary Entries Near dandruff

Cite this Entry

“Dandruff.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dandruff. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

dandruff

noun
dan·​druff ˈdan-drəf How to pronounce dandruff (audio)
: scaly white or grayish flakes of dead skin cells especially of the scalp
also : the condition marked by the excessive shedding of such flakes

Medical Definition

dandruff

noun
dan·​druff ˈdan-drəf How to pronounce dandruff (audio)
: scaly white or grayish flakes of dead skin cells especially of the scalp
also : the condition marked by excessive shedding of such flakes and usually accompanied by itching
dandruffy adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on dandruff

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