The phrase "close cropped" is spelled with two different sounds for the "o" vowels. The first "o" is pronounced with the "oh" sound, represented by the IPA symbol /oʊ/, while the second "o" is pronounced with a short "uh" sound, represented by the IPA symbol /ʌ/. The word "close" is pronounced as "klohz" (/kloʊz/) while "cropped" is pronounced as "kruhpt" (/krʌpt/). Together, "close cropped" refers to a hairstyle where the hair is cut very short to the scalp.
The term "close cropped" is often used to describe the specific style of cutting or trimming hair very short or very closely to the scalp, typically with the use of clippers. The phrase encompasses the concept of removing excess length from hair, leaving it at a minimal length, often less than an inch. It conveys the idea of a uniform and neatly trimmed appearance, where the hair follows the natural contours of the head.
"Close cropped" is commonly associated with hairstyles that emphasize precision and cleanliness, as well as those that require minimal maintenance. It is frequently preferred by individuals who desire a practical and low-maintenance haircut, such as athletes, military personnel, or those simply seeking a minimalist aesthetic. The term can be used to describe both men's and women's hairstyles, as it is not gender-specific.
The close cropping technique, often performed by professional barbers or hairstylists, involves using different guard sizes on clippers to achieve the desired length. It may also involve carefully blending the hair on the sides and back with the top to create a visually pleasing transition. The close cropped style can complement various face shapes, as it accentuates the facial features and bone structure while offering a clean and contemporary look.
In a broader sense, the term "close cropped" has also been adapted into other contexts, such as close-cropped photography (referring to tightly framed and closely cropped images) or close-cropped lawns (referring to lawns cut very short and evenly).
The term "close cropped" is derived from the combination of two separate words: "close" and "cropped".
The term "close", in this context, originated from the Old French word "clos", which means "closed" or "confining". Over time, the word "close" came to be associated with ideas like proximity, tightness, and narrowness.
The word "cropped" originated from the Old English verb "croppian", meaning "to cut off". It evolved into Middle English as "cropen" and eventually became "crop" as a noun, referring to a severed or cut off part of a plant, such as the fruit or grain.
When these two words are combined, "close cropped" refers to a hairstyle that is cut very short, often leaving the hair close to the scalp. The term suggests a tight, confined, or narrow appearance due to the shortness of the cut.