Sideburns

Sideburns are a form of facial hair that grows on the sides of the face, extending from the temples toward the ears and, in some cases, down toward the jawline. They are distinct from mustaches, beards, and the broader category of mutton chops, which generally extend lower and may connect to other facial hair.

The term sideburns derives from the name of American Civil War general Ambrose Burnside, whose characteristic facial hair featured prominent hair at the temples. The association of this style with Burnside’s image led to the everyday term “sideburns” in English, with historical references sometimes using the variant “burnsides.”

Styles of sideburns vary widely. Some are short and neatly trimmed to end at the middle or bottom of the ear, while others are longer and may extend toward the jawline. Edges can be squared, rounded, or tapered to a point. Sideburns may be worn alone, or they can be grown in conjunction with a mustache or with a beard, in which case they blend into other facial-hair forms such as mutton chops or a full beard.

Cultural and historical notes indicate that sideburns have periodically been tied to fashion, masculinity, and social signals. They have appeared in various eras and among different subcultures, sometimes evoking notions of formality, rebellion, or vintage style. In modern grooming, sideburns are often maintained for symmetry and personal preference, with trimming tools and techniques aimed at achieving a consistent length and edge.