Pronunciation: [dɪpɪlˈe͡ɪt] (IPA) 
The word "depilate" is spelled with a "p" in the middle, which may seem strange considering the "p" is usually silent in words like "receipt" and "psychology". However, in "depilate" the "p" is actually pronounced as /p/. This pronunciation is due to the Greek origin of the word, where the letter "pi" (Π, π) is pronounced as /p/. So next time you're spelling "depilate", remember to keep that "p" sound in mind!
Depilate is a verb that refers to the act of removing hair from the body or a specific area of the body. It involves the process of getting rid of unwanted hair by means of shaving, waxing, plucking, or using depilatory creams or devices.
The word "depilate" is derived from the Latin word "depilatus," which means to pluck or tear out hair. It is commonly used in the context of both men and women who desire to remove hair for aesthetic, hygienic, or cultural purposes.
Depilation can be performed on various parts of the body, including the face, legs, underarms, and bikini area, among others. It aims to achieve smooth, hair-free skin by extracting hair from the follicles or weakening the hair shaft. The methods employed for depilation vary in terms of efficacy, duration, and potential discomfort.
Shaving is the most common form of depilation, involving the use of a razor or electric shaver to cut hair at the skin's surface. Other methods, such as waxing, involve applying heated wax to the skin and then removing it, along with the attached hair, by pulling it off quickly. Plucking involves manually extracting individual hairs using tweezers, while depilatory creams contain chemicals that dissolve the hair shaft.
Depilation has been practiced throughout history, dating back to ancient civilizations. It continues to be a prevalent beauty practice in modern times, with various techniques and products available to cater to different preferences and needs.
To pull out or otherwise remove the hair of a part.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
To strip off hair.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word depilate derives from the Latin verb depilare, which is a combination of the prefix de- meaning down or removal and the verb pilare meaning to pluck or remove hair. Therefore, depilare translates to to remove hair. Over time, this Latin word evolved into the Old French term depiler, before entering the English language as depilate.
