Definition

Noun: * A strong, durable fabric characterized by prominent, rounded lengthwise cords (ridges) or wales. These cords are created during the weaving process and are typically wider and flatter than those found in corduroy. The fabric is commonly used for sturdy clothing, uniforms, and upholstery.

Usage

• Bedford cord is an uncountable noun. It refers to the type of fabric itself.
• It is used to describe the material from which an item is made.

Examples

• "The tailor recommended bedford cord for the winter jacket because of its durability and warmth."
• "Her new trousers were made of a fine navy bedford cord."
• "Historically, military uniforms were often constructed from bedford cord."

Advanced Usage

• The term can function attributively as a noun modifier (e.g., "a bedford cord fabric," "bedford cord trousers"). In this use, it describes the type of material.
• While similar, bedford cord is distinct from corduroy. Corduroy has a cut-pile surface that creates soft, distinct wales, whereas bedford cord's cords are woven and have a flatter, harder-wearing finish.

Variants and Related Words

• Whipcord: Another strong, hard-wearing fabric with a steep, diagonal twill weave, often used for similar purposes as bedford cord.
• Corduroy: A cut-pile fabric with a soft, velvety surface texture formed into distinct wales or cords.
• Piqué: A fabric with a raised, textured pattern, often in a honeycomb or corded effect, but typically lighter in weight than bedford cord.

Synonyms

• Fabric with cords
• Ribbed fabric (general)
• Heavy corded cloth

Antonyms

• Plain weave fabric (e.g., broadcloth, muslin)
• Smooth fabric (e.g., satin, sateen)
• Lightweight fabric (e.g., chiffon, voile)

Noun

1. a heavy corded fabric similar to corduroy; used for clothing