box braid

noun

plural box braids
: a section of hair that is parted on the scalp often in a square shape and then braided along its length
For something a bit more suited to everyday, you can also pull your box braids into a high ponytail.Taylor Bryant

Examples of box braid 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.
Kirk Franklin, a popular Black gospel artist, was blasting from the speakers and laughter filled the room as those affected by the fires received hairstyles ranging from box braids to lineups and retwists. Karla Marie Sanford, Los Angeles Times, 24 Jan. 2025 The contention raised the issue of cultural appropriation, since the traditional box braids worn by Black individuals were reframed as a trend when showcased by white TikTok users. Gordon G. Chang, Newsweek, 11 Dec. 2024 Knotless goddess boho braids aren’t too dissimilar to knotless box braids. L'oréal Blackett, refinery29.com, 16 July 2024 Zuri Hall said Summer is not officially over with her boho knotless box braids and a natural glow. Larry Stansbury, Essence, 16 Sep. 2024 Fulani braids start with a cornrow base and cascade into any box braid or twist style your heart desires. Annie Blay, Allure, 16 Aug. 2024 Between droves of Black women donning box braids, the barbershop station in the lobby, and dozens of sneakerheads wearing their cleanest pair of retro Jordans, the connections between what happens fashion-wise on and off the basketball court became evident. Essence, 9 Aug. 2024 Adding to these racial fetish undertones is a Black family servant whose coitus with Lucy’s soon-to-be sister-in-law (a white woman with box braids) is also constantly on display, leaving her to pleasure herself when he’s called away. Nicholas Bell, SPIN, 31 July 2024 Unforgettable at those Games, too, were tennis star Naomi Osaka’s long red-and-white box braids. Jennifer Weil, WWD, 23 July 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1985, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of box braid was in 1985

Dictionary Entries Near box braid

Cite this Entry

“Box braid.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/box%20braid. Accessed 2 Feb. 2025.

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