afro puff

noun

Etymology

Formed by compounding the nouns afro + puff, with reference to Afro-textured hair that is shaped into a puff-like appearance. See OED afro, n., OED puff, n. Compare OED afro puff, n.

Meaning & use

  1. 1948–Originally and chiefly: a hairstyle worn by Black people characterized by textured hair that is combed and tied into one or more sections, resulting in a fluffy, rounded shape. Frequently occurs in the plural as afro puffs.
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    1948
    Afrylic [sic], one of the first fibers designed to simulate the Black woman's hair, offers these eye-catching Afro Puffs and Curls.
    J. C. Holmes MS Journal 10 December (Boston Univ. Mugar Memorial Libr.: J. C. Holmes Coll. #111, Box 22) 1
    1951
    Special this week! While they last...Afro Puffs...now only $4.95 pair with coupon.
    J. Kerouac On the Road: The Original Scroll 2007 156
    1951
    Getting a sew in at 15 seems insane to me ?? What happened to knocker balls and Afro puffs
    Lompoc California Record 13 September ii. 6/3
    1953
    If your rows were done really neatly, you could get away with wearing it out and pinning on an Afro Puff in the back. Voila! A hip new do!
    Daily Illini Illinois 15 January 4/5
    1963
    I can't tell you how many guys come up to me and want to touch my Afro puff or love the way my frizzy curls blow in the wind.
    New Statesman 8 February 202/3
    1986
    Sullivan, a stylish and high-maintenance diva, adjusted the big pink bow wrapped around one of Charity's Afro puffs.
    Toronto Star Nexis 20 June d4

See also

  • afro
  • natural
  • natural hair movement