hairline

[hair-lahyn]

noun

1. a very slender line.

2. the lower edge of the hair, especially along the upper forehead.

   a hairline that slowly receded.

3. worsted fabric woven with very fine lines or stripes.

4. Printing.

   1. a very thin line on the face of a type.

   2. a style of type consisting entirely of such lines. line.

   3. a thin rule for printing fine lines. line.

   4. undesirable vertical lines line between letters, caused by worn matrices.

adjective

1. narrow or fine as a hair.

   a hairline fracture.

hairline

/ ˈhɛəˌlaɪn /

noun

1. the natural margin formed by hair on the head

2. 1. a very narrow line

   2. ( as modifier )

      a hairline crack

3. printing

   1. a thin stroke in a typeface

   2. any typeface consisting of such strokes

   3. thin lines beside a character, produced by worn or poorly cast type

4. a rope or line of hair

Word History and Origins

Origin of hairline¹

First recorded in 1725–35; hair + line ¹

Example Sentences

Before their 7-5, series-clinching win over the Giants, the Dodgers found out that catcher Will Smith is dealing with a hairline fracture in his right hand.

From Los Angeles Times

Dodgers catcher Will Smith has a hairline fracture in his right hand and is doubtful to return before the end of the regular season, according to manager Dave Roberts.

From Los Angeles Times

With chilling nonchalance, Victor observes the start of a hairline fracture that will eventually produce a painful crack.

From Salon

“Laser Hair” for the hairline and “everywhere else,” which we assume means laser hair removal.

From Los Angeles Times

The rash traditionally starts at the hairline and moves its way down the body, according to Pan.

From Los Angeles Times

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