A mane is the long, thick hair that grows along the neck and head of certain animals, especially horses and lions. A horse's mane flows down one side of its neck, often brushed and sometimes braided by riders. A male lion's mane grows around his head like a spectacular collar, making him look larger and more impressive.

The mane serves practical purposes: it protects the animal's neck from bites during fights and, for horses, helps swish away flies. A lion's mane also signals his health and strength to other lions. The darker and fuller the mane, the more formidable he appears.

When people have thick, flowing hair, we sometimes say they have a mane of hair, comparing their hair to a lion's impressive coat. You might read about a character with “a wild mane of curly red hair” or see someone shake their head and let their mane fly. It's a compliment that suggests something untamed and magnificent, like comparing someone's hair to nature's most impressive hairstyle.