What does hairdresser mean?
A hairdresser is a person who professionally cuts, washes, styles, or otherwise tends people's hair. The term covers a range of services and skills, from basic trimming and washing to coloring, chemical treatments, and elaborate event styling. Hairdressers commonly work in salons, although some operate independently, work from home, or specialize in particular services. The word is used in both British and American English and is not restricted by gender. It can also refer figuratively to the profession as a whole, as in the expression “a career in hairdressing.” Related terms provide different emphasis: “barber” traditionally suggests men's haircuts and shaving, “hairstylist” may emphasize creative styling, and “coiffeur” is a more formal or traditional term often associated with a stylish arrangement of the hair. As an occupational term, hairdresser is clear, familiar, and culturally associated with personal care, fashion, and professional skill.
nounA person whose occupation is cutting, washing, styling, or otherwise tending people’s hair. A hairdresser may work independently or in a salon and may also provide related beauty services.
- A person who professionally cuts, styles, washes, or otherwise tends hair.
"She booked an appointment with her hairdresser before the wedding."
"The hairdresser recommended a shorter cut for the summer."
"He asked his hairdresser whether the treatment would damage his hair."
The regular plural is used for individual professionals; “hairdressers” can also refer collectively to the profession.
"Several hairdressers from the salon volunteered to raise money for the event."
A hairdresser is literally a “dresser of hair”—a job title that combines two older words to describe the careful business of making someone's locks look their best.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Words that share this root
Related word forms
How hairdresser is actually used
The word is neutral in register and is not gender-specific. In American English, “barber” may suggest a traditional shop focused on men's haircuts and shaving, while “hairstylist” can emphasize creative or fashion-oriented styling. The expression “at the hairdresser's” is especially common in British English.
Easily confused with hairdresser
A hairdresser may work with clients of any gender and focus primarily on cutting and styling hair, whereas a barber traditionally specializes in men's haircuts and may also provide shaving services.