Mustaches vs. Moustache — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman & Urooj Arif — Updated on April 29, 2024
"Mustaches" refers to the plural form of "moustache," which is a style of facial hair grown above the upper lip; "moustache" is the singular form, used primarily in British English.
Difference Between Mustaches and Moustache
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Key Differences
"Mustaches" is used to describe more than one instance of facial hair grown above the lip, commonly in American English. On the other hand, "moustache" is the British English spelling for the same type of facial hair, generally used in the singular form.
The usage of "mustaches" often appears in contexts discussing various styles or multiple individuals with facial hair, whereas "moustache" typically focuses on the facial hair of a single individual.
In literature and daily conversation, American English favors "mustaches" when referring to facial hair on multiple people, while British English uses "moustache" to refer to a singular style or instance.
Stylistic guidelines and grooming discussions in the U.S. might refer to trends involving "mustaches," emphasizing the plural form. In contrast, British guides might discuss the proper care and styling of a "moustache."
Cultural references to facial hair in America often celebrate "mustaches" as a feature of masculinity or fashion, whereas British references to a "moustache" might carry a more classic or even whimsical connotation.
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Comparison Chart
Number
Plural form
Singular form
Language Variation
Preferred in American English
Preferred in British English
Usage Context
Refers to multiple instances of facial hair
Refers to one person's facial hair
Cultural Connotation
Often associated with masculinity and fashion
May carry classic or whimsical connotations
Examples in Literature
Used to describe characters with facial hair
Used to focus on a specific character's feature
Compare with Definitions
Mustaches
A symbol of masculinity or maturity in many societies.
In some cultures, mustaches signify adult status.
Moustache
Facial hair grown specifically on the upper lip of one person.
His moustache was meticulously groomed.
Mustaches
Styles of upper lip hair in different cultures.
Mustaches vary widely from handlebars to pencil-thin.
Moustache
Can be a key feature in historical or fictional representation.
The detective’s moustache became his trademark.
Mustaches
Often used to portray characters in films or plays.
Actors wore fake mustaches to fit their roles.
Moustache
Often used humorously or stereotypically in British media.
Cartoons sometimes exaggerate a villain’s moustache.
Mustaches
Facial hair grown on the upper lip of multiple individuals.
The contest judges various mustaches for creativity.
Moustache
Symbolic of wisdom or authority in some contexts.
The professor's moustache added to his distinguished look.
Mustaches
Associated with Movember, promoting men's health issues.
Participants grow mustaches in November as a fundraiser.
Moustache
A style element often associated with the Victorian era in Britain.
The gentleman sported a classic moustache.
Mustaches
The hair growing on the human upper lip, especially when cultivated and groomed.
Moustache
A moustache (UK: ; American English: mustache, ) is a strip of facial hair grown above the upper lip. Moustaches have been worn in various styles throughout history.
Mustaches
A group of bristles or hairs about the mouth of an animal.
Moustache
Variant of mustache.
Mustaches
Distinctive coloring or feathers near the beak of a bird.
Moustache
A growth of facial hair between the nose and the upper lip.
Mustaches
Food or drink sticking conspicuously to the upper lip
Wiped the milk mustache from my face.
Moustache
Mustache.
Mustaches
Plural of mustache
Moustache
An unshaved growth of hair on the upper lip;
He looked younger after he shaved off his mustache
Common Curiosities
How is "moustache" pronounced differently in British English?
In British English, "moustache" is typically pronounced with a softer "t" sound.
How do you properly groom a moustache?
Proper grooming involves regular trimming, washing, and sometimes waxing for styling.
Can women have mustaches?
Yes, women can have mustaches due to hormonal variations, though it's less common.
Are there any health benefits to having a moustache?
The beard and mustache can protect the skin on your face from the sun's harmful UV rays.
What historical figures are known for their moustaches?
Notable figures include Salvador Dalí and Albert Einstein, known for their iconic moustaches.
What is the significance of Movember?
Movember is a movement where men grow mustaches in November to raise awareness for men's health issues.
Is there a difference in the care for mustaches vs. beards?
Yes, mustaches often require more detailed grooming and styling compared to beards.
What are the most popular styles of mustaches?
Popular styles include the handlebar, chevron, and pencil mustaches.
Are mustaches back in fashion?
Yes, mustaches have seen a resurgence in popularity as a retro fashion statement.
How can someone style their moustache?
Styling options vary from simple grooming to using products like moustache wax for shaping.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
