kersey
Definition
- Noun:
- A coarse, ribbed woolen cloth: "kersey" is a type of fabric historically woven from wool, characterized by a ribbed or twilled texture and a napped surface. It was commonly used for heavy outer garments, such as coats and breeches, especially in the 16th and 17th centuries.
- A garment made from this cloth: In plural form ("kerseys"), the term can refer to trousers or breeches made from this fabric.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- The farmer wore a sturdy coat made of kersey to protect himself from the cold. (A coat made from coarse woolen cloth.)
- In the 17th century, kersey was a popular fabric for soldiers' uniforms due to its durability. (A type of woolen cloth used for practical clothing.)
- The old tailor still had bolts of kersey in his shop, though it was no longer in fashion. (Bundles of the fabric.)
Advanced Usage
"Kersey" as a historical textile term: The word is often encountered in historical texts describing trade or clothing. It was a staple fabric in England and was exported to other countries.
- The merchants traded kersey for spices from the East. (The cloth was a valuable commodity.)
"Kersey" in dialect: In some regional English dialects, "kersey" could also refer to a type of coarse, narrow cloth used for linings or cheap garments.
Variants and Related Words
Kerseys (n, plural): trousers or breeches made from kersey.
- The soldiers wore kerseys as part of their standard uniform. (Trousers made from the cloth.)
Kerseymere (n): a fine, twilled woolen cloth, often a lighter variant of kersey.
- The gentleman's waistcoat was made of kerseymere, a softer fabric. (A refined type of kersey.)
Synonyms
- Broadcloth: a dense, smooth woolen fabric, though typically finer than kersey.
- Frieze: a coarse, heavy woolen cloth with a nap, similar in use to kersey.
- Twill: a type of weave producing a diagonal rib, characteristic of kersey's texture.
Related Idioms