Here's how it came about:
* Early use: Originally, "towhead" referred to a person with light-colored, unkempt hair that resembled the fluffy, unspun flax fibers.
* Evolution of meaning: Over time, the term specifically came to describe blonde or light-colored hair, particularly in children.
* Negative connotations: Unfortunately, "towhead" has a history of being used as a derogatory term, especially in the context of racial prejudice. This is because it was often used to describe individuals with light-colored hair who were perceived as being "less intelligent" or "less civilized" than those with darker hair.
It's important to note that "towhead" is considered an outdated and potentially offensive term. There are many other, more respectful ways to describe someone with light-colored hair.