dander

noun

dan·​der ˈdan-dər How to pronounce dander (audio)
1
: dandruff
specifically : minute scales from hair, feathers, or skin that may be allergenic
2
: anger, temper
now don't get your dander up

Did you know?

How did dander acquire its "temper" sense? There are several theories, though the evidence is inconclusive. It has been proposed that the meaning comes from the image of an angry person tearing out their hair by the fistful, scattering dandruff in the process. Some think it comes from a West Indian word dander, which refers to a kind of ferment and suggests "rising" anger (in English, ferment can mean "a state of unrest or excitement"). Others have suggested that the "anger" sense comes from the Dutch phrase op donderen, meaning "to burst into a sudden rage."

Examples of dander in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In addition, indoor air quality can also be affected by pet dander, mold and volatile organic compounds from various products and materials. Nora Colomer, Fox News, 17 Jan. 2025 These filtration systems are well-equipped with HEPA filters that can remove bacteria, dust, dander, smoke, and other allergens from the air. Melissa Epifano, People.com, 15 Jan. 2025 However, there are some circumstances that depend on your home and may require cleaning before the three year mark to reduce dust, pet dander, pollen or mold in your home. Lauren David, Southern Living, 4 Jan. 2025 The National Eye Institute also notes that allergens such as pollen, dust mites, mold, and dander can also cause or contribute to pink eye. Daryl Austin, USA TODAY, 26 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for dander 

Word History

Etymology

alteration of dandruff

First Known Use

1786, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of dander was in 1786

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Dictionary Entries Near dander

Cite this Entry

“Dander.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dander. Accessed 22 Jan. 2025.

Kids Definition

dander

noun
dan·​der ˈdan-dər How to pronounce dander (audio)
1
: minute scales from hair, feathers, or skin that may cause allergy
2
: anger entry 1, temper
the insults got my dander up

Medical Definition

dander

noun
dan·​der ˈdan-dər How to pronounce dander (audio)
: dandruff
specifically : minute scales from hair, feathers, or skin that may act as allergens

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