mustache
UK: məˈstɑːʃ | US: ˈmʌsˌtæʃ
n. a strip of hair grown above the upper lip
mustache = must<upper lip hair> + ache<noun suffix>
- must (from Italian mostaccio, derived from Greek mystax <upper lip, mustache>)
- ache (a noun-forming suffix, often used in French loanwords)
Etymology Origin:
The word "mustache" traces back to the Greek mystax (upper lip or mustache), which entered Latin as mustaceus (a type of cake flavored with must, humorously linked to facial hair). It evolved into Italian mostaccio and French moustache, later borrowed into English. The spelling "mustache" reflects the French influence, while "moustache" (UK variant) retains the original French form. The morpheme must preserves the core idea of upper-lip hair, while -ache serves as a nominal suffix.
He twirled the ends of his mustache thoughtfully.
The actor shaved his mustache for the new role.
A well-groomed mustache requires regular trimming.
In the 19th century, elaborate mustaches were a symbol of masculinity.
She drew a fake mustache on her face for the costume party.