corte degradado
/koɾte deɡɾadado/from spelling rules
In Spanish, a taper haircut is called corte degradado.
A taper haircut is a hairstyle where the hair is gradually shortened from the top down to the neckline and sideburns. The term corte degradado translates to a faded haircut and is a common way to refer to this style. In many modern barbershops, you can simply use the word degradado as a noun to refer to the fade itself.
What does it mean word for word?
The word degradado comes from the verb degradar, which means to fade or diminish in intensity. This describes the gradual transition of the hair.
Which one should you use?
While the English word 'taper' can refer to a specific subtle transition, corte degradado is the standard term used in Spanish-speaking barbershops to describe any haircut that features a fade or gradient effect. Additionally, corte desvanecido is another way to refer to a fading haircut.
Is it said differently in some regions?
The term corte desvanecido is particularly popular in some South American countries.
How do you pronounce it?
/koɾte deɡɾadado/
Did you know?
- While degradado describes the hair, the verb degradar is also used to describe the process of a person losing their social status or being demoted in rank.
- In many Spanish-speaking cultures, asking for a degradado often implies a specific social trend tied to urban music and street style rather than just a technical hair length.
- The word corte in corte degradado is a homonym that can also mean 'court' as in a royal palace or a legal court.
Examples in context
- Quiero un corte degradado, por favor.I want a taper haircut, please.
- El corte degradado es muy popular ahora.The taper haircut is very popular now.
- Él se hizo un corte degradado ayer.He got a taper haircut yesterday.
Example conversation
At a barbershop where Mateo is getting his hair cut.
- Elena¿Qué estilo te gustaría hoy, Mateo?What style would you like today, Mateo?
- MateoMe gustaría un corte degradado.I would like a taper haircut.
- ElenaPerfecto, te quedará muy bien.Perfect, it will look great on you.
- MateoMuchas gracias, Elena.Thank you very much, Elena.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
