dandruff

American  

[dan-druhf] / ˈdæn drəf /

Also dandriff

noun

1. a seborrheic scurf that forms on the scalp and comes off in small scales.

---

dandruff British  

/ ˈdændrəf /

noun

1. Also called (now rarely): dandriff.  loose scales of dry dead skin shed from the scalp

---

Other Word Forms

• dandriffy adjective
• dandruffy adjective

Etymology

Origin of dandruff

First recorded in 1535–45; origin uncertain

Explanation

When you have dandruff, there are an unusually large number of skin cells flaking off your scalp. Dandruff can be itchy and irritating, and a little embarrassing. Most people have a least a little bit of dandruff, since the shedding of skin cells from the scalp is perfectly normal. Dandruff only becomes a problem if your head is constantly itchy and your shoulders are always covered in white flakes. While we know the word dandruff dates from the 16th century, much of its origin is uncertain. The last part, -ruff probably comes from East Anglian dialect, huff or hurf, "scab."

Example Sentences

“We do have a very special relationship. In fact, I’ll get that little piece of dandruff off. You have a little piece,” Trump said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 3, 2026

Later that day in the Oval Office, Trump brushed what he described as a bit of dandruff from Macron’s shoulder.

From Salon • Nov. 23, 2025

“It’s about: ‘Oh, let’s look at your dandruff up close, and how dirty your scalp is before and how clean after,’ because it’s not something you see with the naked eye,” Hallajian said.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 21, 2024

People with dandruff may also want to shampoo once a day, said Dr. Azadeh Shirazi, a dermatologist based in La Jolla, California.

From Seattle Times • Oct. 23, 2023

She ran her free hand through her greasy black hair, and a flurry of dandruff settled on her broad shoulders.

From "The Reader" by Traci Chee