ponytail

noun

po·​ny·​tail ˈpō-nē-ˌtāl How to pronounce ponytail (audio)
Synonyms of ponytailnext
: a hairstyle in which the hair is pulled together and banded usually at the back of the head so as to resemble a pony's tail
ponytailed
ˈpō-nē-ˌtāld How to pronounce ponytail (audio)
adjective

Examples of ponytail in a Sentence

She usually wears her hair pulled back in a ponytail.
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.
For Grande, whose ponytail has long been as recognizable as her voice, the new look is a playful departure that still stays true to her vibe. — Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 23 Oct. 2026 Complementing her statement jacket with a pair of jeans, the star styled her ultra-long braids into a high ponytail and bedazzled her weekday look with several shimmering earrings. — Lara Walsh, InStyle, 22 Oct. 2026 Next to her, Deary sported the quintessential Gen Z slicked-back ponytail, parted in the middle and bristle-brushed back from the sides of her head. — Kaleigh Werner, Footwear News, 13 Oct. 2026 Ross also grabbed the woman by her ponytail and slammed her against the wall, causing injuries to her face and lip, according to the report. — Grethel Aguila, Miami Herald, 1 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for ponytail

Word History

First Known Use

1916, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of ponytail was in 1916

Rhymes for ponytail

See All Rhymes for ponytail

Browse Nearby Words

pony support
ponytail
pony truck
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

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

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Kids Definition

ponytail

noun
po·​ny·​tail ˈpō-nē-ˌtāl How to pronounce ponytail (audio)
: a hairstyle in which the hair is pulled together and banded usually at the back of the head so as to resemble the tail of a pony

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