Alberta Written Barber Practice Exam

A coiled twist wound around itself and secured to its base is called what?

1. Bantu knot or Nubian knots

2. Twisted bun

3. French twist

4. Chignon

The correct answer is: Bantu knot or Nubian knots

The term used to describe a coiled twist wound around itself and secured to its base is known as a Bantu knot or Nubian knots. This hairstyle is characterized by small, coiled knots that can be created all over the head or as part of a more significant design. It has historical significance in African culture and is often celebrated for its versatility and protective qualities. The Bantu knot is distinct in its tightness and the way it naturally bubbles outwards due to the coiling, forming a rounded shape. It differs significantly from other hairstyle options; for instance, a twisted bun typically implies a larger, combined structure that may not necessarily showcase the distinct coiling characteristic. A French twist is a more formal style that involves twisting and pinning sections of hair upward in an elongated shape, while a chignon refers to a low, knot-like hairstyle at the nape of the neck. These styles do not capture the essence of a coiled twist as precisely as Bantu knots do, thus reinforcing why this option is the correct identification for the described hairstyle.