Definition

To style hair by combing it away from the head and then back towards the scalp, creating volume and a fuller appearance.

Example

She decided to backcomb her hair for the party to make it look more voluminous.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Have you ever tried to backcomb your hair for more volume?

Yeah, I did that for a party once, and it looked amazing!

I think I might backcomb it for the wedding next week.

That sounds like a great idea! It will definitely make your hairstyle pop.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Backcomb → It is formed from "back" (from Old English "bæc", meaning the rear or reverse side) and "comb" (from Old English "camb", meaning a tool for untangling or arranging hair). The word "backcomb" refers to the technique of combing hair towards the scalp from the ends, creating volume at the back.

Memory Tip

Think of combing hair from the 'back' ('bæc') towards the scalp with a 'comb' ('camb') — that's how backcombing creates volume.

Visually Confused Words