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

Dermatologists say that scalp treatments promote circulation and detoxify, as well as calm and hydrate skin, all of which can help prevent dandruff, itchiness, dryness and inflammation. —Kailyn Brown, Los Angeles Times, 3 Nov. 2024

Not to be confused with dandruff, Mathieu says that a dry scalp will present itself with smaller flakes and oiliness on the skin or within the hair. —Audrey Noble, Vogue, 5 Nov. 2024

Keep in mind that a dry scalp is caused by lack of moisture, while dandruff is caused by excess oil. —Brigitt Earley, Glamour, 24 Oct. 2024

As a part of that research, Fair uncovered that 40 percent of users with dandruff don’t use products that target the concern. —James Manso, WWD, 3 Sep. 2019

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