The word "kuhl" is actually spelled "cool," with an /u/ sound that's often written as "oo." In IPA phonetic transcription, this sound is represented as /u/, which is a vowel sound that's formed by rounding your lips slightly. This sound is used in many English words, like "moon," "food," and "soon," and it's an important sound to master if you want to speak English clearly and accurately. So if you see the word "kuhl" somewhere, remember that it's probably just a spelling mistake, and that the correct spelling is "cool."
Kuhl is an Arabic word that can be translated as "eye paint" or "kohl" in English. It refers to a cosmetic product traditionally used in many Middle Eastern and South Asian cultures, especially by women, to darken and accentuate the eyes. Kuhl typically comes in the form of a fine powder or a thick paste, usually made from a combination of soot, galena, charcoal, or other natural pigments mixed with oil or water. This mixture is applied using a stick or a small brush onto the waterline, the inner rim of the eyelids, or around the eyes to create a distinctive and dramatic look.
In addition to enhancing the appearance of the eyes, kuhl is also believed to have therapeutic and protective properties. It was historically used for its perceived ability to prevent eye infections, reduce the risk of eye diseases, and shield the eyes from dust and bright sunlight. Kuhl was considered a symbol of beauty, mystique, and cultural identity, and its application was often part of traditional makeup rituals for special occasions, religious ceremonies, or daily self-expression.
Over time, kuhl has gained popularity beyond its cultural origins, and it is now widely used around the world as an eyeliner or smoky eye makeup product. It can be found in various shades, ranging from dark black to softer hues like grey or brown, to suit different preferences and styles.
The word "kuhl" comes from the Arabic word "kohl". "Kohl" refers to a traditional eye cosmetic that has been used in many cultures throughout history, including ancient Egypt, Mesopotamia, and the Middle East. Over time, this word was anglicized and transformed into "kuhl", which continues to be used today to describe a type of eyeliner or eye makeup.