dreadlock

noun

dread·​lock ˈdred-ˌläk How to pronounce dreadlock (audio)
plural dreadlocks
Synonyms of dreadlocknext
1
: a narrow ropelike strand of hair formed by matting, braiding, or twisting : lock
2
dreadlocks ˈdred-ˌläks How to pronounce dreadlock (audio) plural : a hairstyle consisting of dreadlocks : locks
dreadlocked adjective

Examples of dreadlock in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In the year 3000, humans fight back against the Psychlos, a race of aliens led by a nine-foot-tall tyrant with dreadlocks (Travolta). René Ostberg, Encyclopedia Britannica, 13 Mar. 2026 Martin is described as a Black male, about 5 feet 4 inches tall and weighing roughly 120 pounds, with untwisted dreadlocks. Cbs News Atlanta Digital Team, CBS News, 9 Feb. 2026 Riq Woolen’s goggles fit awkwardly on his head because of the dreadlocks. Michael-Shawn Dugar, New York Times, 9 Feb. 2026 Hillbilly hippies with dreadlock beards buried safes in the woods containing hundreds of thousands of dollars in cash. Scott Eden, Rolling Stone, 1 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for dreadlock

Word History

First Known Use

1960, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of dreadlock was in 1960

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Cite this Entry

“Dreadlock.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dreadlock. Accessed 6 Apr. 2026.

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