dégradé
/de.ɡʁa.de/
The English phrase 'hair layers' is translated into French as dégradé.
dégradé refers to a haircut where the hair is cut to different lengths to create a tiered effect. It can be used as an adjective to describe hair that has been cut in layers. If you want to express the action of getting this specific haircut, use the phrase faire un dégradé.
What does it mean word for word?
The term comes from the verb dégrader, which means to reduce in steps or to create a gradient or fade.
How does it change in a sentence?
When referring to the haircut itself as a noun, it is a masculine noun, as in un dégradé.
How do you pronounce it?
The word has three syllables: /de.ɡʁa.de/.
Did you know?
- In a military context, the verb dégrader is used when a soldier is stripped of their rank and honors.
- While dégradé describes a haircut, the verb dégrader can also mean to demolish a building.
- In the world of French digital design and art, un dégradé is the indispensable term for a 'gradient' or 'ombré' effect, moving smoothly between colors.
Examples in context
- J'aime beaucoup les cheveux dégradés, ça donne un style moderne.I really like layered hair, it gives a modern look.
- Qu'est-ce que tu penses des coupes en dégradé à la mode ?What do you think of trendy layered haircuts?
- Je voudrais un dégradé léger, s'il vous plaît.I would like a light layered haircut, please.
- Elle a fait un dégradé pour donner du volume.She got a layered cut to add volume.
- Est-ce que ce dégradé convient à mon visage ?Does this layered cut suit my face?
Example conversation
At the hair salon.
- GabrielBonjour Chloé, qu'est-ce qu'on fait aujourd'hui ?Hello Chloé, what are we doing today?
- ChloéJe veux couper mes pointes et faire un dégradé.I want to trim my ends and get layers.
- GabrielD'accord, vous voulez un dégradé léger ou marqué ?Alright, do you want light or pronounced layers?
- ChloéPlutôt léger, s'il vous plaît, Gabriel.Rather light, please, Gabriel.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry dégradé, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
