# dreadlocks

/dɹˈɛdlɒks/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/dreadlocks
Updated: 2026-10-18

## Definition

long pieces of hair twisted into thick, rope-like strands that stay that way as they grow. You see this hairstyle in many cultures around the world.

For teachers: tightly matted or twisted strands of hair forming rope-like locks that develop naturally or through styling. Often associated with Rastafari culture but now worn broadly as a hairstyle.

## Examples

- She wears her dreadlocks in a high bun.
- He ties his dreadlocks back before his shift at the restaurant kitchen.
- Her dreadlocks, cultivated over a decade, reflected both personal commitment and a broader cultural heritage that she discussed openly in interviews.

## Synonyms

dreads

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.