dandruff

noun

dan·​druff ˈdan-drəf 

: scaly white or grayish flakes of dead skin cells especially of the scalp

also : the condition marked by excessive shedding of such flakes and usually accompanied by itching

dandruffy

ˈdan-drə-fē 

adjective

Examples of dandruff in a Sentence

The shampoo is supposed to help control dandruff.

Recent Examples on the Web

Other common skin conditions, like psoriasis and ringworm, can be mistaken for dandruff or dry scalp. —Sarah Bradley, Health, 13 Feb. 2025

After all, dandruff is one of the leading causes of a dry scalp. —Danielle Sinay, Glamour, 28 Jan. 2025

This process helps reduce dandruff and oil production, improving the overall condition of your scalp and extending the time between hair washes. —Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 1 Feb. 2025

Editor’s tip: The treatment also contains sweet almond oil, which has antifungal properties that can help reduce dandruff. —Jenny Berg, Allure, 1 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

probably from dand- (origin unknown) + -ruff, from Middle English rove scabby condition, from Old Norse hrūfa scab; akin to Old High German hruf scurf, Lithuanian kraupus rough

First Known Use

1545, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing dandruff

• anti-dandruff

Kids Definition

dandruff

noun

dan·​druff ˈdan-drəf 

: scaly white or grayish flakes of dead skin cells especially of the scalp

also : the condition marked by the excessive shedding of such flakes

Medical Definition

dandruff

noun

dan·​druff ˈdan-drəf 

: scaly white or grayish flakes of dead skin cells especially of the scalp

also : the condition marked by excessive shedding of such flakes and usually accompanied by itching

dandruffy

-ē 

adjective