Decalvant

/dɛˈkælvənt/ adjective

Definition

Causing baldness or hair loss; having the property of making hair fall out.

Etymology

From de- (causing loss) + calvus (Latin for bald) + -ant (adjective suffix indicating causing or producing). The Latin root 'calvus' gives us words like 'calvary' (a place of suffering).

Kelly Says

Some harsh industrial chemicals and medical treatments can be decalvant—they damage hair follicles so severely that regrowth doesn't occur, which is why chemotherapy patients experience hair loss!

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

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