Merkin
/ˈmɜːrkɪn/noun
A wig for the pubic area.
She wore a merkin in the movie to make it seem like she wasn't actually nude.
Often appears as...
- wear a merkin
- make a merkin
Usage tips
Colloquial
noun
Used in English Renaissance theater as a pejorative term for a woman.
The playwright referred to the character as a merkin to illustrate her lower social status.
Usage tips
Formal, Disapproving
Literary
noun
A wig for the pubic area.
She wore a merkin in the movie to make it seem like she wasn't actually nude.
Often appears as...
- wear a merkin
- make a merkin
Usage tips
Colloquial
noun
Used in English Renaissance theater as a pejorative term for a woman.
The playwright referred to the character as a merkin to illustrate her lower social status.
Usage tips
Formal, Disapproving
Literary
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Cultural Relevance
A merkin may arise in discussions about historical fashion or movie costume design.
The costume designer sourced a merkin for the historical drama.
Pro Tip 2/3Current Usage
Today, a merkin is rarely used but may appear in films or performance art.
For the nude scene, the actress chose to use a merkin.
Pro Tip 3/3Sensitive Topic
Talking about merkins can be personal; use discretion in formal or unfamiliar settings.
He quietly asked the shop for a merkin without attracting attention.
Compare with
toupeewig
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