Haircut Terminology Glossary for Clients and Barbers

Clear haircut terminology helps avoid confusion during consultation. This glossary explains common barbering terms in plain English.

Fade

A fade is a gradual change from shorter hair to longer hair. It can be low, mid or high.

Skin fade

A skin fade blends the shortest area down to skin or very close to skin.

Taper

A taper gradually shortens selected areas, often around the sideburns and neckline.

Guard number

A guard number refers to a clipper attachment length. Lower numbers cut shorter and higher numbers leave more hair.

Clipper-over-comb

Clipper-over-comb is a technique where clippers cut hair guided by a comb rather than a guard.

Scissor cut

A scissor cut uses scissors to shape the hair, often for longer or softer styles.

Texture

Texture describes movement, separation or a less uniform finish in the hair.

Weight

Weight means the thickness or heaviness of an area of hair.

Line-up

A line-up sharpens the edges around the hairline, temples, beard or neckline.

Neckline

The neckline is the bottom edge of the haircut at the back of the neck.