A braid is a way of weaving three or more strands together in an over-and-under pattern to create a single rope-like length. You might braid hair, string, rope, or even strips of dough for a special bread.

To make a basic braid, you divide the material into three sections, then cross the right strand over the middle one, then the left over the new middle, repeating this pattern until you reach the end. The result is stronger than loose strands and looks decorative too. Friendship bracelets are often made by braiding colorful threads together.

The technique appears in cultures worldwide and has been used for thousands of years. Vikings braided their hair and beards. Ancient Egyptians braided wigs. Native American tribes braided sweetgrass for ceremonies. Sailors braided rope to make it stronger for ship rigging.

You can also use braid as a noun to describe the finished product: “She wore her hair in a long braid down her back.” Braids can be simple three-strand versions or incredibly complex patterns, with five, seven, or even more strands woven together.