Percalines

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A type of closely woven cotton or cotton-blend fabric characterized by a smooth, firm finish, often used for bedding or clothing; also refers to items made from this textile, valued for durability and comfort
2. Fabric made from finely woven cotton or blends, notable for its tight weave and smooth texture, commonly employed in bed linens and apparel; the term also applies to goods produced from this material known for strength and softness
3. A densely woven cotton fabric featuring a smooth surface, frequently utilized in sheets and garments designed for comfort and longevity; the name also denotes products crafted with this robust yet soft textile

Etymology: "Percalines" is the plural of "percaline," a French-derived name for a cotton cloth. The French word is related to "percale," a tightly woven cotton fabric, and "percaline" itself is a lighter, glossier relative, usually finished with a glazed surface and used more for linings and bookbinding than for the bedding the definition describes. Behind "percale" lies a Persian term, "pargala," meaning a rag or piece of cloth, which reached French through Arabic and Levantine trade. The "-ine" ending in "percaline" marks it as a diminutive-style variant, so the name amounts to something like "a little percale." The plural form simply refers to several bolts or pieces of this cloth.

Synonyms: cottons, fabrics, textiles