Comparative form of 'hairy'; more covered with hair or having more hair-like properties.
From Old English 'hær' (hair) + '-y' suffix + '-er' comparative suffix. Standard English adjective formation.
The word 'hairy' meant 'difficult/risky' in slang by the 1960s (as in 'hairy situation'), which linguists think came from the physical sensation of hair standing on end from fear—proving our bodies literally shape our language.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.