spit curl

American  

noun

1. a tight curl of hair, usually pressed against the forehead or cheek.

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spit curl British  

noun

1. Also called (esp British): kiss curl.  a circular curl of hair pressed flat against the cheek or forehead

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Etymology

Origin of spit curl

First recorded in 1825–35

Example Sentences

The head sculpt is equally impressive featuring black shiny hair with the legendary spit curl, a square jaw, dimpled chin and a serious facial expression.

From Washington Times • Apr. 16, 2020

Known for his hairdo, which featured a spit curl over his forehead, Camacho always displayed a big dose of brashness and wit, and when it was fight time he dazzled with outrageous outfits.

From New York Times • Dec. 16, 2015

He looked like a puffy George Reeves, right down to the Superman spit curl, and he favored loud, checked sport jackets, normally associated with vacationing appliance salesmen.

From The New Yorker • Jul. 27, 2015

The band’s signature look was matching suits along with Mr. Haley's forehead spit curl.

From New York Times • Aug. 13, 2013

She moistened with her forefinger a yellow spit curl that lay like a caress on her cheek.

From The Best Short Stories of 1915 And the Yearbook of the American Short Story by O'Brien, Edward J. (Edward Joseph Harrington)