Bouffant is a term that is often used in the fashion industry to describe a hairstyle or clothing item. The word bouffant has its roots in the French language and is used to describe something that is puffed or swollen. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of bouffant in more detail.
Definitions
Bouffant is an adjective that is used to describe something that is puffed up and full of volume. It can be used to describe hairstyles, clothing, and even furniture. Bouffant hairstyles are characterized by a lot of volume and height, often achieved by teasing or backcombing the hair to create a puffy, full look.
Origin
The word bouffant comes from the French word bouffer, which means to puff up or swell. The term was first used in the fashion industry in the 1950s to describe the voluminous hairstyles that were popular at the time. Since then, the term has been used to describe a variety of fashion items that are characterized by their fullness and volume.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, bouffant means “puffed out or full, especially in a rounded or swelling manner.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines bouffant as “a hairstyle in which the hair is arranged in a full, puffy style, typically with a lot of volume at the crown.”
Associations
Bouffant hairstyles are often associated with the 1960s, when they were popularized by celebrities like Brigitte Bardot and Jackie Kennedy. They are also associated with glamour and sophistication, as they are often worn for formal events like weddings and red carpet appearances.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for bouffant include puffy, voluminous, full, and swollen.
Antonyms
Antonyms for bouffant include flat, sleek, and smooth.
The same root words
Other words that have the same root as bouffant include bouffage (a puff pastry), bouffée (a gust of wind), and bouffir (to swell or puff up).
Example Sentences
- She wore her hair in a bouffant style for her wedding.
- The dress had a bouffant skirt that added volume and movement.
- The cushions on the couch were bouffant, giving it a plush and comfortable look.
- Her cheeks were bouffant with laughter.
- The pastry chef created a bouffant dessert that was light and airy.