crimple

Crimple refers to a type of wave or curl in fabric, hair, or other pliable materials. In textiles, it is often an undesirable puckering or wrinkling that can occur during manufacturing processes like weaving or finishing, or due to washing and wear. This puckering can affect the drape and appearance of the fabric. Certain fabrics, such as wool, are more prone to crimping due to the natural structure of their fibers.

In the context of hair, crimping describes a type of wave pattern that is tighter and more irregular than a loose curl. Hair crimping can be a natural texture or achieved through styling tools like a crimping iron. This technique creates a zig-zag pattern in the hair, adding volume and texture. The term can also be used more generally to describe the act of pressing or indenting something to create a wavy or wrinkled effect.