Definition

Noun: A type of pile fabric, typically made from cotton, characterized by uncut loops on both sides of the material. This structure makes it highly absorbent, and it is primarily used to make bath towels and bathrobes.

Usage and Examples

The term "terry cloth" refers specifically to the fabric itself. It is commonly used as a material noun. * "The most important feature of a good bath towel is that it is made from thick, soft terry cloth." * "For summer, I prefer a lightweight terry cloth robe over a heavier one." * "The fabric store has a wide selection of terry cloth in different colors."

Advanced Usage and Notes

• The term is often used attributively (as a noun modifier) before another noun to describe what an item is made from.
  • terry cloth towel (often shortened to just "terry towel")
  • terry cloth slippers
• The uncut loops are sometimes called "pile loops." When these loops are sheared or cut, the fabric is called "terry velour," which has a softer, plush feel on one side.

Variants and Related Words

• Terry (noun): A common shortened form of "terry cloth."
  • "These towels are 100% cotton terry."
• Terry Towel (noun phrase): The most common product made from this fabric.
• Turkish Towel: A style of towel traditionally woven from terry cloth.
• Pile Fabric (noun phrase): The general category of fabrics to which terry cloth belongs, characterized by a surface of cut or uncut loops.

Synonyms

• Terry (n.)
• Turkish toweling (n., less common)

Related Phrases and Compounds

• Terrycloth (adj.): An alternative, often hyphenated () or closed () spelling when used as an adjective.
  • "She bought a new terrycloth robe."

Noun

1. a pile fabric (usually cotton) with uncut loops on both sides; used to make bath towels and bath robes