The spelling of the phrase "short hairs" may seem simple, but there is a slight variation in the pronunciation that can affect the spelling. When pronounced with emphasis on the second syllable, as in "shOrt-hairs," the word "short" is pronounced with the long "o" sound. However, when pronounced with emphasis on the first syllable, as in "shOrt hairs," the word "short" is pronounced with the short "o" sound. The IPA phonetic transcription for "short hairs" is /ʃɔːt hɛrz/ or /ʃɔrt hɛrz/.
Short hairs refers to the strands of hair that are shorter in length compared to the rest of the hair on an individual's head or body. It can also refer to the hair that starts to grow back after being cut or shaved.
When referring to short hairs on the head, it typically indicates the growth of new hair strands that have recently emerged from the scalp. These hairs are often coarser and may have a different texture compared to longer hairs. Short hairs can result from a variety of factors, such as a recent haircut, natural growth patterns, or regrowth after hair loss.
In the context of body hair, short hairs refer to the strands that have not fully developed or may be in the process of regrowing. This can apply to various parts of the body, such as leg hair, underarm hair, or facial hair. The length and density of short hairs can vary depending on genetics, age, and individual factors.
The term "short hairs" can also be used metaphorically to describe a state of alertness or extreme caution. It suggests being on high alert or being prepared to take immediate action, as if coming into close contact with danger. This colloquial usage is commonly heard in expressions like "I wouldn't touch that with a ten-foot pole; it would scare the living daylights out of you and leave you jumping at short hairs!"
The term "short hairs" is an idiom that originated in the English language. It refers to hair that has been cut very short or close to the scalp. However, the phrase "short hairs" is often used figuratively to describe being in a difficult or precarious situation, usually with the implication of being in trouble or facing a challenge.
The etymology or specific origin of the phrase is uncertain, as idiomatic expressions often evolve over time without a clear etymological trail. It is likely that "short hairs" began as a direct reference to the literal act of cutting one's hair very short, and gradually developed into a metaphorical expression reflecting a sense of vulnerability or being at a disadvantage.
The phrase "short hairs" can be found in various contexts and idiomatic usage. For example, someone might say they were "grabbed by the short hairs" to convey being trapped or in a tight spot.