梳子 (shū zi) is a common noun meaning 'comb' — a handheld tool with parallel teeth used to untangle, smooth, or style hair. The first character, 梳 (shū), is a verb meaning 'to comb (hair)' and functions as a modifier here, indicating the object’s purpose. The second character, 子 (zi), is a diminutive or nominalizing suffix often attached to nouns to form concrete, everyday objects (e.g., 筷子 kuàizi 'chopsticks', 桌子 zhuōzi 'table'). Together, 梳子 literally means 'a thing for combing'.

This word is neutral in register and used across all age groups and contexts — from personal grooming routines to describing items in stores or gift sets. It can appear with measure words like 一把 (yì bǎ, 'one handle') or 一个 (yí gè, 'one item'), and is frequently paired with verbs like 用 (yòng, 'to use'), 买 (mǎi, 'to buy'), or 放 (fàng, 'to place'). Unlike more technical terms, 梳子 refers specifically to traditional hand combs, not electric or specialized hair tools.