hair follicle

noun

: the tubular epithelial sheath that surrounds the lower part of the hair shaft and encloses at the bottom a vascular papilla supplying the growing basal part of the hair with nourishment see hair illustration

Examples of hair follicle in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Laser Therapy Some studies have shown that at-home laser treatments to stimulate the hair follicles can help reverse thinning hair. —Kelly Burch Published, Verywell Health, 25 Feb. 2025

As the hair follicles are taken from the dihydrotestosterone-resistant donor area at the back of the head, patients can rest assured that their transplants are permanent. —Kody Boye, USA TODAY, 21 Feb. 2025

Studies have shown that ketoconazole can block the effects of an enzyme that converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that attacks the hair follicle. —Malia Griggs, Glamour, 19 Feb. 2025

If your hair needs a little extra help to remove stubborn knots, consider applying a dedicated product before styling, to help protect hair follicles and gently brush through. —Kiana Murden, Vogue, 4 Feb. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1838, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for hair follicle

• diabolical
• symbolical

Kids Definition

hair follicle

noun

: the tube-shaped sheath surrounding the lower part of a hair shaft

Medical Definition

hair follicle

noun

: the tubular epithelial sheath that surrounds the lower part of the hair shaft and encloses at the bottom a vascular papilla supplying the growing basal part of the hair with nourishment