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

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

My scalp analysis, conducted by Tou Dao Tang’s Sherry Zhu, again reported oily skin, dandruff and sleep deprivation as well as a possible nutrition deficiency, Zhu said.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 21, 2024

Even if you don’t have dandruff, it can decrease microscopic inflammation and promote hair growth, says Kheterpal.

From National Geographic • Aug. 22, 2023

I see her giving Addie the evil oculus every morning as Addie stands there, silent as dandruff and every bit as annoying.

From "The Misfits" by James Howe