Pronunciation: [mˈʌlɪt] (IPA) 
The word "mullett" is a tricky one in terms of spelling. It is spelled with two "t's" at the end, unlike the fish of the same name. The proper IPA phonetic transcription for "mullett" would be /\ˈmʌl.ɪt/. The first syllable is pronounced "mull" with a short u sound, followed by "et" with a short i sound. The double "t" at the end of the word signifies that the final consonant is pronounced more forcefully than a single "t".
Mullett is a noun that refers to a hairstyle characterized by short hair on the front and sides of the head and long hair at the back. This term gained popularity particularly in the 1980s and 1990s, although it has been used to describe similar hairstyles throughout history. The word "mullett" is believed to have derived from the term "mullet," which originally referred to a type of fish with a distinctive tail.
The mullett hairstyle typically features a shorter cut on the top and sides, often cropped close to the scalp or styled into a standard haircut, while the back is left much longer, often extending beyond the shoulders. This creates a stark contrast between the short and long sections of hair. The mullett style can vary in length and shape, but it commonly results in a clear division between the two parts of the hair, creating a distinct appearance.
The mullett gained notoriety as a fashion trend during the 1980s, becoming associated with individuals who embraced a more rebellious or non-conformist style. Over time, it evolved into a hairstyle that has been both celebrated and mocked for its unique aesthetic. While the mullett has experienced periods of popularity and decline, it continues to be recognized as a defining element of certain eras in fashion and culture.
The word "mullet" is believed to have originated from the Latin word "mullus", which refers to a type of fish. Mullet fish were commonly found in European waters, and their distinctive appearance with a white belly and a dark back was similar to the contrast seen in a specific hairstyle.
The term "mullet" in relation to hair became popularized in the United States during the 1990s, describing a hairstyle that is short at the front and sides but long at the back. This hairstyle drew parallels with the fish's distinctive coloring, leading to the expression "mullet" being used to describe the unconventional hairstyle.
