skinhead
UK: ˈskɪnhɛd | US: ˈskɪnhɛd
n. 1. A person with a shaved or closely cropped head, often associated with specific subcultures (e.g., working-class youth, far-right extremists, or anti-racist movements).
n. 2. A member of a subculture originating in 1960s Britain, characterized by short hair, working-class fashion, and affiliations with ska or punk music.
The term "skinhead" emerged in 1960s Britain as a literal descriptor for the subculture's signature hairstyle—shaved or closely cropped to the "skin." The word combines "skin" (Old English scinn, meaning "hide" or "outer layer") and "head" (Old English hēafod). Initially neutral, it later became linked to political extremism due to fringe factions, though the subculture itself is diverse. The morphemes reflect a straightforward compound structure, emphasizing physical appearance.
The skinhead subculture originally united working-class youths around music and fashion.
Some skinheads adopt far-right ideologies, while others actively oppose racism.
His shaved head and boots marked him as a skinhead in the crowd.
Early skinheads were influenced by Jamaican rude boys and ska music.
Media often stereotypes skinheads, ignoring the subculture's complex history.