permed
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /pɜːrmd/
KK: /pɜrmd/
adjective
Definition
Having hair that has been styled into curls or waves using a chemical process.
Example
She decided to get her hair permed for a change in style.
Conversation
I really like your hair today; is it permed?
Thanks! Yes, I just got it done last week.
It looks great! I’ve always wanted to try getting it permed.
You should! It really adds some nice volume.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
curly
wavy
textured
Antonyms
straight
smooth
flat
verb
Definition
To have treated hair with a chemical process to create curls or waves that last for a long time.
Example
She permed her hair for the special occasion, giving it beautiful curls.
Tense Forms
Past: permed
Past Participle: permed
Conversation
Did you see how her hair looks now?
Yeah, it’s gorgeous! She permed it, right?
I think so, it really suits her style.
Root Explanation
Permed → The word 'permed' is derived from 'perm' (short for 'permanent wave'), which comes from the combination of 'permanent' (from Latin 'permanens', meaning lasting) and 'wave' (from Old English 'wafian', meaning to move to and fro). The term refers to a hairstyle that is set in a lasting wave or curl.
Memory Tip
Think of a hairstyle that is 'lasting' ('permanent') and has a 'wave' — that's what 'permed' means.
Visually Confused Words
perfumed
preformed
peed