chignon

Etymology

Borrowed from French chignon circa 1780, when the hairstyle was in fashion.

noun

1. A roll or twist of hair worn at the nape of the neck; a bun.
   The chignon cannot be confounded with other artificialities which ladies put on and off. 1867, “Chignonology”, in Living Age, volume 92, page 761
   The physician should evaluate for a history of tight ponytails, buns, chignons, braids, twists, weaves, cornrows, dreadlocks, sisterlocks, and hair wefts in addition to the usage of religious hair coverings. 2021, Becky S. Li, Howard I. Maibach, Ethnic Skin and Hair and Other Cultural Considerations, page 154
2. (medicine) A temporary swelling on a neonate's head after a ventouse-assisted delivery.