hair follicle

noun

: the tubular epithelial sheath that surrounds the lower part of the hair shaft and encloses at the bottom a vascular papilla supplying the growing basal part of the hair with nourishment see hair illustration

Examples of hair follicle 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.
According to Collins, hair growth masks work by nourishing the scalp, which promotes healthier hair follicles and therefore encourages hair growth. Jenny Berg, Vogue, 4 Feb. 2025 But can certain essential oils actually stimulate hair follicles and generate new or faster growth? Eva Crouse, Flow Space, 31 Jan. 2025 The active peptide ingredients are said to improve blood circulation to the scalp, too, to further strengthen hair follicles and promote the production of collagen. Skeptical? Christina Shepherd McGuire, Southern Living, 20 Jan. 2025 Hair Thinning Therapy Moisturizing Masque $20 Amazon The ideal pick for fine hair or hair that is thinning, this mask reduces breakage and shedding while stimulating the hair follicle to encourage new and thicker growth. Ariel Wodarcyk, Glamour, 7 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for hair follicle 

Word History

First Known Use

1838, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of hair follicle was in 1838

Dictionary Entries Near hair follicle

Cite this Entry

“Hair follicle.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hair%20follicle. Accessed 11 Feb. 2025.

Kids Definition

hair follicle

noun
: the tube-shaped sheath surrounding the lower part of a hair shaft

Medical Definition

hair follicle

noun
: the tubular epithelial sheath that surrounds the lower part of the hair shaft and encloses at the bottom a vascular papilla supplying the growing basal part of the hair with nourishment

More from Merriam-Webster on hair follicle

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!