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

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

Clinically proven to reduce dandruff by 24% and scalp oil by 50% in one month, this waterproof device features silicone bristles that massage the scalp in the shower, effectively eliminating oil and dead skin buildup. —Angela Lei, Forbes, 9 Jan. 2025

Medicated shampoos for dandruff include active ingredients such as: Ciclopirox Coal tar Ketoconazole Salicylic acid5 Selenium sulfide Sulfur6 Zinc pyrithione Scalp psoriasis, an autoimmune skin condition, may also require the use of medicated shampoos. —Heather Jones, Verywell Health, 4 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