kohl

¹

[kohl]

noun

1. a powder, as finely powdered antimony sulfide, used as a cosmetic to darken the eyelids, eyebrows, etc.

Kohl

²

[kohl]

noun

1. Helmut 1930–2017, German political leader: chancellor of West Germany (1982–90); chancellor of Germany 1990–98.

Kohl

¹

/ kəʊl /

noun

1. Helmut (ˈhɛlmuːt). born 1930, German statesman: chancellor of West Germany (1982–90) and of Germany (1990–98)

kohl

²

/ kəʊl /

noun

1. a cosmetic powder used, originally esp in Muslim and Asian countries, to darken the area around the eyes. It is usually powdered antimony sulphide

Word History and Origins

Origin of kohl¹

1790–1800; < Arabic kohl, variant of kuhl. See alcohol

Word History and Origins

Origin of kohl¹

C18: from Arabic kohl; see _alcohol

Example Sentences

Take for example ithmid, which is deemed the “purest form of kohl” by Muslims across the Middle East and North Africa and other parts of Africa and Asia.

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Zahra Hankir opens “Eyeliner: A Cultural History” by marveling over her mother’s elegant beauty process as she delicately sweeps black kohl on her waterline, dreaming of displaying that same confidence one day.

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Underneath her veil, Baher’s face was round, her tired eyes lined with kohl.

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The walls of one room were covered with photographs of her in full kumari regalia, a small girl with brightly painted lips and eyes lined with kohl.

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A collection of cosmetics was found, including kohl containers, as well as bracelets and earrings.

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