bouffant

adjective

bouf·​fant bü-ˈfänt How to pronounce bouffant (audio) ˈbü-ˌfänt How to pronounce bouffant (audio)
: puffed out
bouffant hairdos
a bouffant veil

Examples of bouffant 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 keeping with the old Hollywood style of the gown, Kardashian sported an unusual smooth bouffant updo that featured a high ponytail looped under to create a large rounded bun that sat on the back of her head. — Meg Walters, InStyle, 18 Oct. 2026 With two sections framing her face in the front, the back half of her head was teased and tangled into a little bouffant lift at the crown. — Kaleigh Werner, Footwear News, 13 Oct. 2026 Parton was a larger-than-life personality who was known for her glitzy costumes, voluptuous figure, and bouffant hairstyle. — Shaun Boyd, CBS News, 26 Aug. 2026 Margo paints her skin alien blue, dons an orange bouffant wig and skimpy silver ensemble, and names her character Hungry Ghost, reclaiming an allusion from one of Mark’s purple poems. — Judy Berman, Time, 15 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for bouffant

Word History

Etymology

French, from Middle French, from present participle of bouffer to puff

First Known Use

1826, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of bouffant was in 1826

Browse Nearby Words

bouffancy
bouffant
bouffe
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Bouffant.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bouffant. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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