chignon

noun

chi·​gnon ˈshēn-ˌyän How to pronounce chignon (audio)
also -ˌyȯn
Synonyms of chignonnext
: a knot of hair that is worn at the back of the head and especially at the nape of the neck

Examples of chignon 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.
The ornate trim and sparkle speak for themselves, making these the perfect pieces to pair with a slick chignon, red lipstick and your favorite heels. — Kelsey Legg, ABC News, 1 Sep. 2026 This chignon involves a scarf to add some color and/or pattern to your usual hairstyle. — Kaitlyn Yarborough, Southern Living, 14 July 2026 Another snap showed hairstylist Fabio Petri putting the finishing touches on her elegant chignon, which was adorned with delicate white flowers. — Erin Clack, PEOPLE, 29 June 2026 Rather than sitting squarely at the nape of her neck, the chignon is jauntily positioned off-center, with a roll starting behind one ear and sweeping gracefully toward the opposite side. — Marci Robin, Allure, 17 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for chignon

Word History

Etymology

French, from Middle French chaignon chain, collar, nape

First Known Use

1783, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of chignon was in 1783

Rhymes for chignon

See All Rhymes for chignon

Browse Nearby Words

chigger
chignon
chigoe
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Chignon.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/chignon. Accessed 5 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

chignon

noun
chi·​gnon ˈshēn-ˌyän How to pronounce chignon (audio)
: a knot of hair worn at the back of the head

More from Merriam-Webster on chignon

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for chignon

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