The correct spelling of the word toupee is /tuːˈpeɪ/. This word is often misspelled as "toupe" or "toopee" due to its tricky combination of letters. The first two letters, "to", are pronounced as /tu/, like the word "too". The "u" in the third syllable is pronounced as a long /uː/, like in "moon". The "e" at the end is pronounced as a short /eɪ/, like the "ay" sound in "day". So, to remember the correct spelling of toupee, think of the sounds "too-pa-ee."
A toupee is a type of hairpiece or wig designed to cover baldness or hair loss. It is typically made from real or synthetic hair and is worn on the top of the head, attached using clips, adhesive tapes, or other methods for secure placement.
Toupees are commonly used by men who experience partial or complete baldness due to various factors such as genetics, aging, medical conditions, or treatments like chemotherapy. The purpose of a toupee is to create the appearance of natural hair, providing the wearer with a fuller head of hair and boosting their self-confidence.
These hairpieces come in various styles, colors, and lengths, allowing individuals to choose one that closely matches their natural hair or desired look. They are often custom-made to ensure a perfect fit and blend seamlessly with the wearer's existing hairline.
Toupees can be maintained and cared for similarly to natural hair, with regular washing, combing, and styling. To achieve a natural look, it is important to properly attach and position the toupee on the head, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit.
While toupees have faced some stigma in the past, improvements in wig-making technology have helped to create more realistic, undetectable hairpieces, reducing the social stigma surrounding hair loss remedies. Overall, toupees serve as a practical and popular solution for individuals seeking to regain a youthful appearance and boost their self-esteem.
A kind of peruke; an artificial lock of hair; a curl.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "toupee" originated from the French term "toupée", which means "tuft" or "wig". It comes from the Old French word "topet", which referred to a small tuft or lock of hair. The term was later borrowed into English and eventually evolved into "toupee" with its modern-day meaning of a small wig or hairpiece worn to cover a bald spot.