plural roach also roaches
1
: a silver-green European freshwater cyprinid fish (Rutilus rutilus)
also
: any of various related fishes (such as some shiners)
2
: any of several American freshwater sunfishes (family Centrarchidae)
1
: a curved cut in the edge of a sail to prevent chafing or to secure a better fit
2
: a roll of hair brushed straight back from the forehead or side of the head
roached; roaching; roaches
1
: to cut so that the remainder stands upright
roach a horse's mane
2
: to cause to arch
specifically
: to brush (the hair) in a roach
—often used with up
Cite this Entry
“Roach.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/roach. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.
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