Coiffeur

/kwɑːˈfɜːr/ noun

Definition

A male hairdresser or hair stylist, especially one who works in a fashionable salon; a barber.

Etymology

From French 'coiffeur', derived from 'coiffer' (to dress or arrange hair), this French word was borrowed into English to describe professional hair workers.

Kelly Says

French coiffeurs in 18th-century salons were celebrities—wealthy people paid enormous sums for the elaborate wigs and hairstyles they created, making them the 'Instagram influencers' of their era.

Ethical Language Guidance

Gender History

French 'coiffeur' (male hairdresser) vs. 'coiffeuse' (female). Gendered labor segregation: male stylists commanded higher prestige and wages historically, despite identical skill and work.

Inclusive Usage

Use 'hairstylist' or 'hair professional' regardless of gender; if needed to specify gendered role, acknowledge it reflects historical discrimination, not capability.

Inclusive Alternatives

["hairstylist","hair professional","stylist"]

Empowerment Note

Women hairdressers—especially coiffeuses—were underpaid and undervalued; modern professional credentialing has worked to desegregate and equalize the field.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.