Definition

A small section of hair that sticks up or grows in a different direction than the rest of the hair, making it difficult to style flat.

Example

He tried to flatten his cowlick with gel, but it kept springing back up.

Conversation

Hey, do you ever have to deal with a cowlick in your hair?

All the time! It just won't stay down no matter what I do.

I know right? Mine always sticks up right at the back.

It’s so frustrating! I guess we just have to embrace them.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Cowlick → The word is formed from "cow" (referring to the animal) and "lick" (meaning to touch or stroke with the tongue). The term describes a tuft of hair that grows in a direction different from the rest, reminiscent of how a cow might lick its calf, causing the hair to stand up or lay down in a peculiar way.

Memory Tip

Imagine a cow 'licking' its calf, causing a tuft of hair to stand out in a different direction — that's how you can remember that a 'cowlick' is a section of hair that grows differently.

Visually Confused Words