Definition of pompadour

The word "pompadour" originates from the name of Madame de Pompadour, a French mistress of King Louis XV in the 18th century. She was known for her fashionable hairstyles, which were often high and spectacular. The term "pompadour" eventually came to describe a hairstyle characterized by a tall, curved shape, often featuring a "pompadour" or "pom" of teased or styled hair on top. The hairstyle became popular in the mid-20th century, particularly among men, with the help of rock and roll artists such as Elvis Presley and Buddy Holly, who popularized the style. Today, the term "pompadour" encompasses a range of hairstyles that feature a teased or styled section on top, often accompanied by a "pom" or "pomps" to create a dramatic, attention-grabbing appearance.