Definition

1. Noun:

   • A soft, thick fabric with a smooth, dense pile on one side: Velvet is a type of woven tufted fabric where the cut threads are evenly distributed, giving it a distinctive soft, plush feel and a lustrous appearance. It is traditionally made from silk but can also be made from cotton, linen, wool, or synthetic fibers.

2. Adjective:

   • Resembling velvet in texture; smooth and soft: Used to describe something that has the characteristic softness, smoothness, or luxurious feel of velvet fabric.
   • Smooth and gentle to the senses: Can describe sounds, touches, or tastes that are exceptionally smooth and pleasing.

Usage Examples

• Noun:

  • The curtains were made of deep red velvet.
  • She wore a beautiful dress of green velvet to the gala.

• Adjective:

  • The cat's fur was velvet to the touch.
  • He spoke in a velvet voice that was very calming.

Advanced Usage

• "to be on velvet" (idiomatic, somewhat dated): To be in a very favorable or prosperous position, especially financially.

  • After the successful investment, he found himself on velvet.

• "velvet glove": A metaphor for a gentle or soft approach, often masking firmness.

  • She managed the team with a velvet glove, but everyone knew she was in charge.

Variants and Related Words

• Velvety (adjective): Having the soft, smooth quality of velvet.

  • The chocolate mousse had a velvety texture.

• Velveteen (noun): A cotton fabric with a short pile, made in imitation of velvet.

  • The child's coat was made of durable velveteen.

Synonyms

• Plush (noun/adjective): A fabric with a similar deep, soft pile; luxurious.
• Smooth (adjective): Having an even surface; free from irregularities (for the adjectival sense).

Related Phrases and Idioms

• An iron hand in a velvet glove: A person or policy that appears gentle but is firm, severe, or determined underneath.

  • The new manager's polite requests were an iron hand in a velvet glove; non-compliance was not an option.

• Velvet paw: A deceptive appearance of gentleness that conceals strength or a threat.

  • His friendly demeanor was a velvet paw hiding his competitive nature.

Adjective

1. resembling velvet in having a smooth soft surface
2. smooth and soft to sight or hearing or touch or taste

Noun

1. a silky densely piled fabric with a plain back