Definition

1. Noun:
   • A removable fabric cover for a pillow: A "pillow-case" is a cloth covering that is placed over a pillow to protect it and can be easily removed for washing.
   • A type of bed linen: It is a specific item of bedding, typically made of cotton, linen, or synthetic materials, designed to fit snugly over a pillow.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • Please change the pillow-case before you go to bed. (The fabric cover on the pillow needs to be replaced.)
  • She bought a set of pillow-cases with floral patterns. (A collection of removable covers for pillows.)

Advanced Usage

• "to turn the pillow-case inside out": to reverse the fabric cover for cleaning or to expose a different side.

  • He turned the pillow-case inside out to shake off the dust. (He reversed the cover to remove particles.)

• "pillow-case with a zipper": a type of pillow-case that uses a zipper closure instead of an open end.

  • The hotel uses pillow-cases with zippers for a more secure fit. (The covers have a zipper to keep the pillow enclosed.)

Variants and Related Words

• Pillow-slip (n): an alternative term for a pillow-case, especially one that is open at one end and slips over the pillow.

  • She prefers a soft pillow-slip for her neck. (She likes a gentle fabric cover for her pillow.)

• Pillow-case set (n): a collection of pillow-cases sold together, often matching other bed linens.

  • The pillow-case set includes two cases for standard pillows. (A pair of covers sold as a unit.)

Synonyms

• Pillow cover: a general term for any covering for a pillow, including pillow-cases and decorative shams.
• Pillow slip: another common synonym, especially in British English.

Related Idioms

• "to sleep with a pillow-case over one's head": an idiomatic expression meaning to avoid reality or to be unaware of what is happening.
  • He seems to be sleeping with a pillow-case over his head about the company's problems. (He is ignoring the issues.)

Usage Instructions

• Grammatical note: "Pillow-case" is a compound noun that is always written with a hyphen. It is countable, so it can be singular (a pillow-case) or plural (pillow-cases).
• Context: This word is used in everyday conversation about household items and bedding. It is not typically used in formal or technical contexts outside of home care.