Definition

Noun: A coarse, durable fabric characterized by a plain, loose basketweave structure, typically made from cotton or linen fibers. The name originates from the rough sacking material historically used for transporting hops.

Usage

Hopsacking is primarily used as a noun to refer to the fabric itself. It describes a material known for its textured, slightly nubby surface and breathable quality due to its open weave.

Examples

• The tailor recommended a sturdy hopsacking for the casual autumn jacket.
• Her suit was made of a lightweight wool hopsacking, giving it a distinctive, rustic texture.
• Traditional workwear often utilized hopsacking for its durability.

Advanced Usage

• As a modifier: The term can function attributively to describe other items made from this fabric.
  • He wore a classic hopsacking blazer.
• In historical/comparative context: Used to describe a weave or texture reminiscent of the original coarse sacking.
  • The designer's new collection features modern silks woven with a hopsacking effect.

Variants and Related Words

• Hopsack: A common shortened or variant form with the same meaning.
  • The sport coat was made of a brown wool hopsack.
• Basketweave: Refers to the specific checkerboard-like weaving pattern characteristic of hopsacking fabric.

Synonyms

• Tweed (specifically when referring to a coarse, woolen fabric, though tweed encompasses many weaves)
• Sacking (refers to the very coarse original material, not typically for clothing)
• Coarse cloth

Notes on Meaning

The core meaning is the fabric. Its defining features are its material (traditionally cotton/linen, now also wool), weave (plain basketweave), and quality (coarse, durable, textured). It is distinct from finer, tightly woven fabrics.

Noun

1. a loosely woven coarse fabric of cotton or linen; used in clothing