Definition of hair

The word "hair" has its origins in Old English as "hær" or "har," which was derived from the Proto-Germanic word "*hariz." This, in turn, came from the Proto-Indo-European root "*kros," which meant "to grow" or "to thrive." In Old English, "hær" referred specifically to the hair on the head, and was used in phrases such as "hær dæg" meaning "hair day," or "the day of hair," which referred to the day of the full moon. The word also had connotations of pride and nobility, as evidenced by the phrase "hær-lēd," which meant "proud" or "arrogant." Over time, the spelling of the word evolved to "hair," and its meaning broadened to include any type of hair, whether on the head, body, or elsewhere. Despite its changes, the word "hair" remains a fundamental part of the English language, with a rich history and cultural significance.