five o'clock shadow
nounEtymology First use appears c. 1942, US, advertising copy written by Jules B. Singer of the Federal Advertising Agency for the Gem brand of safety razors, made by the American Safety Razor Company.
1
Informal A dark appearance on a man's chin and face caused by the slight growth of beard that has occurred since he shaved in the morning.
- Men Wanted Without 5 O’Clock Shadow! To get on her wanted list, you must put your best face forward. Avoid “5 o’clock shadow” — that messy afternoon beard-growth. Stay face-neat all day long by shaving with a genuine Gem Blade.1942 November 30, Life, page 96:
- Related terms
- stubble, designer stubble