tresses

Tresses is a noun referring to the hair on a person’s head, particularly when long or styled. The term is largely literary or poetic and is often used to evoke beauty, elegance, or femininity rather than as a scientific descriptor.

Tresses vary in length, texture, and color. They can be straight, wavy, curly, or tightly coiled, and range from natural shades to dyed hues. The word usually connotes hair that has been cared for and arranged, as opposed to unkempt strands.

Care and styling of tresses involve regular washing, conditioning, detangling, and trimming. Common styling methods include brushing, braiding, tying into ponytails or buns, and using accessories such as ribbons, pins, or decorative combs. Protective practices help prevent breakage and split ends, especially for long hair.

Historically and culturally, tresses have served as symbols of beauty, status, or identity. Elaborate hairstyles appear in many traditions and eras, from braided crests in ancient civilizations to elaborate updos in classical portraiture and fashion movements. Tresses are frequently central to personal grooming rituals and ceremonial attire.

Etymology: The word tresses derives from Old French tresse, meaning braid. In English, it came to describe the hair itself, especially long or styled hair, and remains common in literature and fashion discourse.