Definition

A person or thing that has very light blonde or white hair, often described as resembling tow, which is a type of coarse fiber.

Example

The little girl with the towhead played happily in the sun.

Conversation

Did you see that little kid with the towhead at the park yesterday?

Yeah, his hair was so bright and fluffy!

I know, right? It's such a cute look for kids.

Definitely! It makes them look so playful and innocent.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Towhead → The word is formed from "tow" (from Old English *tāw*, meaning coarse, fibrous material) and "head" (meaning the top or part of something). A towhead refers to a person, especially a child, with very light blonde or almost white hair, resembling the color of tow, which is a light, fibrous material.

Memory Tip

Think of 'tow' as a coarse, light material, and 'head' as the top part of a person — that's why a towhead is someone with very light-colored hair.

Visually Confused Words