Having curves or coils, especially describing hair that forms loops or spirals naturally, or any object with a spiral or curved shape.
From Middle English 'curly,' derived from 'curl,' which may come from Middle Dutch 'krul' or Old Norse origins. The word has been used to describe spiraling shapes since at least the 14th century, with applications to hair becoming prominent in modern English.
Different cultures have had wildly different attitudes toward curly versus straight hair throughout history—it's been fashionable, unfashionable, a sign of status, and a basis for discrimination. Our simple word 'curly' carries centuries of cultural baggage about identity and beauty standards!
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