What does hairpiece mean?
A hairpiece is an artificial wig or arrangement of hair worn to supplement, conceal, or decorate a person’s natural hair. It is commonly used to cover a bald or thinning area of the scalp, restore the appearance of a fuller hairstyle, or add hair for a costume or performance. Although the word can refer to a broad range of supplemental hairpieces, it often suggests a relatively small, carefully fitted piece rather than a full wig. In British English, “hairpiece” is particularly common in the context of discreet coverings for thinning hair, while American speakers also use it, alongside terms such as “wig” and “toupee.” The term carries little stigma and can be matter-of-fact, especially in descriptions of personal grooming, medicine, fashion, or theatre. Its simple formation reflects its meaning: a “piece” of artificial hair.
nounA small wig or other artificial arrangement of hair worn to cover a bald or thinning area, supplement a person’s natural hair, or enhance their appearance. The term can also refer more broadly to a supplemental piece of hair worn as part of a hairstyle.
- An artificial wig or supplemental arrangement of hair worn to cover bald or thinning areas or to alter a person’s appearance.
- A piece of artificial hair added to a person’s natural hairstyle for decorative or practical purposes.
"He wore a discreet hairpiece to disguise the thinning at the crown of his head."
"Her hairpiece was carefully matched to the colour of her natural hair."
"The actor’s convincing hairpiece helped him portray an elderly character."
The plural is formed by adding -s to the noun.
"She keeps several hairpieces in different colours for different occasions."
A hairpiece is a small disguise for the scalp—and a reminder that hairstyles have always been about more than hair.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does hairpiece come from?
“Hairpiece” is an English compound formed from “hair” and “piece.” “Hair” continues Old English hæle, while “piece” entered Middle English from Old French and was ultimately influenced by Latin. The compound is recorded from the early modern period and came to denote a supplementary or artificial arrangement of hair worn on the head.
How hairpiece is actually used
The word is neutral and is especially common in British English for a small, often personalized wig worn over natural hair. In American English it is also used, although “wig” and “toupee” may be preferred in particular contexts. A hairpiece is typically more discreet and smaller than a full wig.
Easily confused with hairpiece
A toupee is usually a small, often men’s wig designed to cover a bald spot, whereas a hairpiece is the broader term for any artificial hair arrangement used to supplement or conceal natural hair.