khadi
Definition
Noun: A coarse, hand-spun, and hand-woven cotton cloth traditionally made in India. It is known for its durability and its significant historical and cultural role, particularly in India's independence movement.
Usage
The word "khadi" is used as a mass noun to refer to the fabric itself. It is often associated with principles of self-reliance, simplicity, and national identity in the Indian context. * The activist wore a simple shirt made of khadi. * Khadi production provides employment for many rural artisans. * The texture of khadi is distinct from machine-made cloth.
Advanced Usage
- "Khadi movement": Refers to the socio-economic initiative led by Mahatma Gandhi to promote the spinning and wearing of khadi as a symbol of Indian self-sufficiency and resistance to British colonial rule.
- The khadi movement was a cornerstone of Gandhi's philosophy of Swadeshi.
Variants and Related Words
- Khaddar: An alternate spelling and term for the same cloth.
- Handloom: A broader term for any cloth woven on a hand-operated loom, which includes khadi.
Synonyms
- Homespun cloth
- Handwoven cotton
Related Phrases
- "To spin khadi": Refers to the specific act of hand-spinning the yarn used for this cloth, often using a charkha (spinning wheel).
- Gandhi encouraged people to spin khadi daily.
Noun
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a coarse homespun cotton cloth made in India
