clean-shaven
Meaning
Having the face shaved smoothly and completely, with no hair left.
Structure
Usage
He prefers a clean-shaven look for his corporate job.
The actor appeared clean-shaven for his role as a young soldier.
His clean-shaven chin felt smooth to the touch.
Etymology
The compound adjective 'clean-shaven' is a relatively modern English formation, emerging in the 17th century to describe a specific grooming standard. Its first element, 'clean', evolved from the Old English clǣne, which carried connotations of purity and freedom from blemish, and here intensifies the result of the action. The second element, 'shaven', derives from the Old English verb sceafan, meaning to scrape or pare away. The compound's logic is transparent: it literally describes a state where the face has been shaved so thoroughly and smoothly that it is left 'clean'—free from any trace of stubble or hair, emphasizing a polished, neat appearance.
Analysis
- clean: From Old English clǣne (pure, clean, clear), of Germanic origin. Functions as an intensifying adjective in this compound. - shaven: Past participle of the verb shave, from Old English sceafan (to scrape, shave). Functions as the core descriptive element, indicating the action performed.