Synonyms for

Curl

Verb / kɜ:l / Another word for curl — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

to form into a spiral or ringlet

Synonyms & similar words

uncoil robertfcurl loop drawin whorl ringlet roll coil gyre robertfloydcurljr curve curl curlup scroll robertcurl curlicue lock kink wave twist coil whirl spiral bend wave crimp kink loop wind entwine corkscrew twirl swirl rotate revolve turn roll circle gyrate

Synonyms by register

Formal

bend curve coil loop

Informal

frizz wave ringlet

Literary

καιν spiral helix

Antonyms

straighten uncurl flatten smooth unwind untwist

Common collocations

  • curl up
  • curl down
  • curl your hair
  • curl into a ball
  • curl of smoke
  • curl of paper
  • curl of the lip

Word family

noun curl
verb curl
adjective curly

Usage note

As a verb, 'curl' can refer to forming into a rounded shape or to the action of making hair wavy. 'Curly' is the common adjective form.

Example sentences

  1. I love to curl up with a good book.
  2. She used a curling iron to curl her hair.
  3. The cat likes to curl up in my lap.
  4. The paper was curling at the edges.
  5. The smoke curled up into the sky.

Quotes

  • I want to get a curling iron and go to town on my hair.
  • Curls are like a gift from God.
  • I always feel better with a good hair day, especially if it involves curls.

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