Widow's peak
A V-shaped point in the centre of the forehead hairline.
This hairline feature forms a distinct V shape at the forehead centre. It arises from how hair growth fields intersect on the scalp. While often linked to folklore about mourning, it appears across many populations without gender bias. Some studies suggest it influences perceptions of political competence.
- Forms a V shape where hair growth fields intersect.
- Named after pointed mourning hoods from the 16th century.
- No statistical difference in frequency between men and women.
- Often given to fictional villains but also heroes like Mickey Mouse.
- May boost voter perception of competence in politicians.
What it is
This feature is a V-shaped dip in the hairline at the centre of the forehead. Hair does not grow in two specific areas around the eyes, known as periorbital fields. When these non-growth zones meet in the middle, the hairline stays straight. If they intersect lower down, the hairline forms a point. The depth of this V varies between individuals. It is a common physical trait found in many people.
History and origin
The name comes from old beliefs linking the hair point to early widowhood. The word peak described hair points by 1833, and the full phrase appeared in 1849. It references the biquoquet, a pointed mourning hood widows wore from 1530. Earlier, in 1509, Alexander Barclay wrote about women wearing peaks on their head coverings. The Mary Stuart cap also created an artificial version with a triangular cloth fold.
What it means
Historically, the shape was seen as an omen of losing a spouse early. This superstition linked the hair point to the peaked hoods of mourning dress. Today, it holds no such negative weight. In modern politics, research suggests it may help candidates. Voters sometimes view those with this hairline as more competent and honest, especially female politicians.
The science
Researchers propose the shape results from how hair-suppression fields overlap. If these fields are smaller or spaced wider apart, they meet lower on the forehead. Wide spacing can link to eyes set further apart. It appears in some genetic conditions like Donnai–Barrow syndrome. Studies show no significant difference in frequency between males and females. Common teaching calls it a dominant trait, but data does not support this.
In culture
Fiction often gives this hairline to villains like Dracula or the Joker. Yet heroes and neutrals have it too, including Sherlock Holmes and Mickey Mouse. Many real celebrities sport the look, such as Leonardo DiCaprio and Marilyn Monroe. It appears in drawings of James Bond and Peter Parker. The trait is widespread among actors, musicians, and athletes globally.
Questions people ask about Widow's peak
Is a widow's peak a sign of a dominant gene?
It is often taught as a dominant inherited trait in schools. However, there are no scientific studies that actually support this claim. The inheritance pattern remains unproven by current data.
Why is it called a widow's peak?
The name comes from the belief that the hair point resembled the peak of a widow's mourning hood. These hoods, called biquoquets, had a distinctive pointed front and were worn from the 16th century.
Is it more common in men or women?
People used to think it was slightly more common in males. Recent studies, including one among the Isoko ethnic group, show no statistically significant difference between the sexes.
Does it affect how people are perceived?
Research indicates it can have a positive effect in politics. Voters may associate the feature with greater integrity and competence, particularly when seen on female candidates.
Good reading and sources
- It really was love at first biteThe Guardian, Article
- Snooker legend Ray Reardon at 90: 'Proud for Wales, proud for myself'BBC, Article
The facts on this page come from the Wikipedia article "Widow's peak", written by its contributors and used under the CC BY-SA 4.0 licence, and from its Wikidata record (CC0). EveryFaceShape rewrote the text in its own words, with AI assistance, and compares every page with the article to make sure no passage is copied. It may be reused under the same CC BY-SA 4.0 licence with a link back.
It may contain mistakes, and figures change over time. Nothing here is investment or buying advice. If something is wrong, tell us. Last refreshed 2026-11-15.
