hairball

word

Definition

A ball of hair that collects in an animal's stomach, especially cats, after they lick their fur. Sometimes it is coughed up or vomited.

Usage & Nuances

Mostly used to talk about cats; informal and sometimes humorous. Common with 'cough up a hairball'. Not used for human hair issues.

Spanish: bola de pelo Portuguese (BR): bola de pelo Portuguese (PT): bola de pelo Chinese (Simplified): 毛球 Chinese (Traditional): 毛球 Hindi: बालों की गांठ Arabic: كرة شعر

Example Sentences

My cat coughed up a hairball this morning.

basic

Cats can get hairballs from cleaning themselves.

basic

The vet checked the cat for hairballs.

basic

Ugh, I just stepped on a hairball in the hallway!

natural

If your cat has frequent hairballs, try a special diet.

natural

Don’t worry, it’s normal for cats to have a hairball sometimes.

natural