What does updo mean?
An updo is a hairstyle in which the hair is swept or pinned upward, usually into a bun, twist, or similar arrangement at the back or top of the head. The word can refer to the finished style or, more generally, to an appearance created by wearing the hair up. It is especially associated with formal occasions such as weddings, dances, and evening events, although looser versions are common in everyday wear. “Updo” is an informal term and is particularly associated with American English, while also being well established in British English. In a sentence, it functions as a countable noun: a person may wear an updo, choose a dramatic updo, or ask a stylist for an updo. Its usefulness lies in naming a broad category of upward hairstyles without specifying the particular technique involved. It therefore contrasts naturally with hair worn down and can describe both polished, structured arrangements and relaxed, tousled versions.
nounA hairstyle in which the hair is arranged, pinned, or otherwise held up, usually at the back or atop the head. It may take the form of a bun, twist, or another swept-up arrangement.
- A hairstyle in which the hair is arranged, pinned, or otherwise held up, usually at the back or atop the head.
"She swept her hair into an elegant updo for the ceremony."
"She swept her hair into an elegant updo for the ceremony."
"He wore a tousled updo to the concert."
The standard plural adds -s to the final vowel.
"The salon offered several elegant updos for the wedding party."
First attested in 1930s America, an updo is hair that has been “done up.”
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does updo come from?
Updo is an English compound formed from the elements up and do. It is first attested in American English in the 1930s. Because it combines English elements rather than continuing a word from a single inherited root, it has no standard set of foreign-language cognates.
Related word forms
How updo is actually used
Informal rather than formal. The word is particularly associated with American English, though it is also commonly used in British English.