Broadcloths

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A type of fabric that is densely woven, typically made of wool or cotton, characterized by its smooth texture and durability
2. A heavy, tightly woven cloth often used for coats and suits, known for its fine finish and resistance to wear
3. A robust textile that features a luxurious feel and a closely packed weave, commonly employed in formal clothing production

Etymology: "Broadcloths" is the plural of "broadcloth," a noun for a closely woven fabric of wool, and it is simply a compound of "broad" and "cloth." The name refers to the width of the loom rather than to any quality of the fabric itself. Cloth woven on a wider loom was made wider than the standard narrow cloth, so the wider product took the descriptive name. The plural form simply counts multiple bolts or pieces of this fabric, so its history is that of "broadcloth" itself. Because the compound is transparent, the word's origin lies in the two English elements, "broad" and "cloth," rather than in any foreign source.

Synonyms: fabrics, textiles