Definition

1. Noun:
   • A soft, light woolen fabric: A type of cloth, typically made from wool or cotton, that is brushed to create a slightly fuzzy surface. It is known for being warm and comfortable.
   • A small cloth used for washing: A piece of cloth, often made from a soft material like flannel, used for washing the face and body.
   • (Usually plural) Trousers made of flannel: Pants constructed from flannel fabric or similar materials like gabardine or tweed.

Examples of Usage

• Noun (Fabric):
  • He wore a warm shirt made of flannel.
  • Flannel is a popular choice for winter bedding.
• Noun (Washing cloth):
  • She used a soft flannel to wash her face.
• Noun (Trousers - usually plural):
  • He put on his old flannels for the casual outing.

Advanced Usage

• "To soft-soap/flannel (someone)" (British English, informal): To use flattering or evasive talk to avoid addressing something directly or to persuade someone.
  • Don't try to flannel me; just give me a straight answer.

Variants and Related Words

• Flannelette (noun): A cotton fabric made to imitate the softness of flannel.
  • The pajamas were made from cozy flannelette.
• Flannelly (adjective): Having the qualities of flannel; soft and fuzzy.
  • The blanket had a pleasantly flannelly texture.

Synonyms

• Fabric/Cloth: Woolen cloth, brushed cotton.
• Washcloth: Facecloth, washrag.
• Trousers (plural): Slacks, pants.

Related Phrases

• A flannel shirt: A shirt made from flannel fabric, often with a plaid or check pattern.
  • His classic flannel shirt was perfect for the autumn hike.
• Flannel mouth (slang, chiefly US): A person who talks smoothly and persuasively, often insincerely.

Noun

1. (usually in the plural) trousers made of flannel or gabardine or tweed or white cloth
2. bath linen consisting of a piece of cloth used to wash the face and body
3. a soft light woolen fabric; used for clothing