A person whose job is to cut, style, and treat people's hair.
Compound of 'hair' (Old English) and 'dresser' (from 'dress,' meaning 'to arrange'). The profession developed in the 1600s-1700s as grooming became a specialized trade.
The term 'hairdresser' reveals an old-fashioned idea—that hair needs to be 'dressed' like clothing—which is why the job was historically very different from the modern stylist, involving more wigs, powders, and formal arrangements.
Historically feminized despite male dominance in barbering (coded as masculine). Modern usage reflects occupational segregation where salon work became 'women's work' by early 20th century.
Use without gendered assumptions. Acknowledge this role across all genders, and note that salon owners and business leaders are often women—a frequently overlooked economic contribution.
Women built the modern salon industry into a multi-billion dollar sector; their entrepreneurship and skill in beauty and business leadership are often rendered invisible in mainstream discourse.
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