The Fu Manchu mustache is a distinctive facial hair style that has been popularized by characters in various forms of media. The word "Fu Manchu" is spelled /fuː ˈmæn.tʃuː/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The first part, "fu," is pronounced like "foo" with a long "u" sound. The second part, "manchu," is pronounced with an emphasis on the first syllable like "man" and a "ch" sound at the end. Overall, the spelling of "Fu Manchu mustache" accurately reflects its pronunciation.
A Fu Manchu mustache refers to a distinctive style of facial hair that is named after the fictional character, Fu Manchu, popularized in novels and movies in the early 20th century. The mustache style is characterized by long, thin, and downward-pointing hair growth that extends beyond the edges of the mouth and often extends beyond the chin.
This type of mustache typically requires a considerable length and thickness of hair functioning as sideburns, joined together under the chin, while the mustache itself is kept relatively narrow. The ends of the mustache tend to be meticulously curled or pointed, adding to its distinctive appearance.
The Fu Manchu mustache has its origins in East Asian culture and has become synonymous with the portrayal of Asian villains in Western media. Its association with the fictional character, Fu Manchu, who was often depicted as a sinister criminal mastermind, has led to stereotypes and controversies surrounding this mustache style.
Although it gained popularity in the early 20th century, the Fu Manchu mustache style has remained relatively niche, mainly adopted by individuals seeking a distinctive and unconventional facial hair choice. Today, it is sometimes sported as an ironic fashion statement or as a nod to the character's cultural significance.