The word "ringlet" is spelled phonetically as /ˈrɪŋɡlɪt/. The first syllable is pronounced with the IPA symbol /r/ followed by /ɪŋ/, which is a nasal vowel. The second syllable is pronounced with the IPA symbol /gl/ followed by the short vowel /ɪ/ and the sound of /t/. This word refers to a small ring or curl of hair, usually on a woman's head. The spelling of this word follows English language conventions where 'ring' is spelled with an 'i' and 'let' is added to denote a diminutive or small version of something.
A ringlet is a noun that refers to a small, circular or spiral-shaped curl or twist of hair. It is often used specifically to describe a loose, springy curl that is well-defined and retains its shape. Ringlets are typically found in tresses of individuals with naturally curly hair, especially those with wavy or tight, coiled hair textures. They are formed when sections of hair naturally coil or twist around themselves, creating a circular or spiral pattern. Ringlets can vary in size, ranging from tiny, delicate loops to larger, more voluminous coils.
In addition to its hair-related definition, a ringlet can also pertain to other objects or things that are shaped like a ring or coil. For instance, a ringlet can refer to a small, circular ornament, such as a decorative or ornamental loop or coil that is worn as jewelry or used as an embellishment. Ringlets can also denote any circular formation or shape that resembles a coil, such as the circular patterns seen in waves, smoke rings, or the ripples caused by a pebble being dropped in water. Furthermore, ringlet can also describe a specific type of butterfly, the ringlet butterfly, known for its distinctive circular markings on its wings.
A small ring; a curl of hair.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "ringlet" has an interesting etymology. It originated in the late 15th century from the combination of two words: "ring" and "let".
The term "ring" comes from Old English "hring", which referred to a circular band or ornament worn on the finger or elsewhere. This Old English word can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "*hringaz".
The word "let", on the other hand, has its roots in Middle English, derived from the Old English word "lettan" meaning "to hinder or stop". It is related to modern English words like "letter" and "late" (meaning to delay or prevent). The meaning of "let" in the context of "ringlet" is closer to "small" or "little".