Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Having soft hair: Describes an animal, person, or other being that possesses hair which is smooth, fine, and pleasant to the touch.

Usage

• The word "soft-haired" is a compound adjective used attributively, typically placed before a noun to describe it.
• It is most commonly applied to animals, particularly pets like dogs, cats, or rabbits, to describe the texture of their fur.
• It can also be used to describe people, though this is less common.

Examples

• Attributive use (before a noun):
  • She adopted a beautiful, soft-haired terrier from the shelter.
  • The soft-haired rabbit was a favorite with the children at the petting zoo.

Advanced Usage

• Descriptive in narratives: Can be used in descriptive writing to create a vivid image of a character or creature.
  • The old man was accompanied by his soft-haired greyhound, its coat shimmering in the sunlight.

Variants and Related Words

• Soft-furred: A near-synonym specifically for animals, emphasizing fur rather than hair.
• Silky-haired: Implies hair that is not only soft but also has a glossy, smooth quality.
• Fine-haired: Suggests hair that is thin and delicate, often contributing to a soft feel.

Synonyms

• Silky: Having a smooth, soft, and glossy texture.
• Downy: Covered with soft, fine hair or feathers.
• Furry (with a soft texture): Having a coat of soft fur.

Antonyms

• Coarse-haired: Having rough, thick, or harsh hair.
• Bristly: Covered with short, stiff, prickly hairs.
• Wiry: Having hair that is stiff and rough like wire.

Adjective

1. having soft hair