# dreads

/ˈdɹɛdz/ (US) · /dɹˈɛdz/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/dreads
Updated: 2026-05-20

## Definition

long, thick strands of hair that are twisted or braided together. You often see this style in hip-hop or reggae music.

For teachers: long, thick, often braided or twisted strands of hair, typically associated with specific cultural or musical styles.

## Examples

- He decided to grow his hair into dreads.
- The artist's signature look features long dreads that she keeps tied with colorful ribbons.
- While the style of dreads has been popularized globally, it is important to recognize its deep cultural significance within specific communities and the history of its development.

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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.