Cool MateCurly
UK /["/ˈkɜːli/"]/US /["/ˈkɜːrli/"]/
Definition
having a lot of curls or a curved shape
In simple words: having a shape like curls or coils
Examples
- long **curly hair**
- I wish my hair was curly.
- a curly-haired girl
- a curly-headed boy
- a dog with a curly tail
- curly cabbage leaves
- She wished she had naturally curly hair.
- Your hair’s gone all curly!
Usage notes
Use 'curly' to describe hair or things that are twisty; avoid in formal writing unless necessary. It’s common in everyday conversations.
Grammar pattern
standalone adjective
Memory hint
Think of a 'curl' like a spiral. If it’s curly, it’s more than just a bend.
Collocations
- be
- go
- all
- very
- slightly
Synonyms
- wavy
- coiled
- spiraled
- twisted
- frizzy
Antonyms
- straight
- flat
Common mistakes
- Using 'curling' instead of 'curly' to describe hair
- Confusing 'curly' with 'curved'
- Overusing 'curly' for objects that are only slightly twisted