Definition

Noun: A wig constructed from hair taken from the mane or tail of a horse. Historically, these wigs were a traditional part of formal attire, particularly within certain professions like the judiciary in some countries.

Usage

This term specifically refers to the wig itself, not the tradition of wearing it. It is a compound noun where "horsehair" describes the material of the "wig."

Examples

• The barrister's horsehair wig was a symbol of his profession.
• The costume department used an authentic horsehair wig for the historical drama.
• Maintaining a horsehair wig requires careful brushing and storage.

Advanced Usage

• As a symbol of tradition: The term is often used in discussions about legal history, tradition, and ceremonial dress.
  • The debate focused on whether the horsehair wig was an outdated symbol or a vital link to legal heritage.

Variants and Related Words

• Wig (n): A head covering of real or artificial hair.
• Peruke (n): A historical term for a wig, especially of the 17th-18th centuries, often made from horsehair.
• Court dress (n): The formal attire worn in court, which may include a horsehair wig.

Synonyms

• Peruke (when made from horsehair)
• Legal wig
• Barrister's wig

Notes

This is a very specific term. In modern contexts, wigs are more commonly made from synthetic fibers or human hair. The "horsehair wig" is strongly associated with British and Commonwealth legal traditions.

Noun

1. a wig made of horsehair
   • the English judiciary wear their traditional horsehair wigs