textile
TEKS-tyl
/ˈtɛkstaɪl/
Any type of cloth or woven fabric; relating to the manufacture of fabrics.
While 'fabric' is a general term, 'textile' is often used in design to discuss the raw materials, weaving techniques, and cultural history of woven goods.
The story behind the word. Derived from the Latin 'textilis,' meaning 'woven,' which comes from the verb 'texere' (to weave). This is the exact same ancient root that gave us 'text' (originally meaning a woven piece of writing) and 'texture.'
Word relationships
- fabric: Fabric is the everyday term for cloth used to make clothes or covers, while textile is a more technical term that includes raw fibers and woven goods.
- cloth: Cloth is a simple, generic term, whereas textile sounds more professional and design-oriented.
Commonly confused with
- texture: Texture refers to the physical feel or surface appearance of an object, while textile is the actual woven fabric itself.
Word family
- textiles (noun): Fabrics or woven materials collectively.
Collocations
- woven textile
- textile design
- home textiles
- textile industry
Example sentences
- "The designer layered various textiles, including a chunky wool throw and linen curtains, to make the bedroom feel cozy." Adding texture to a bedroom
- "She visited a local market to source hand-woven textiles for the custom throw pillows." Sourcing materials for a project
Memory hook
Textiles are textures you can touch, like woven fabrics. Woven fabrics.
When not to use
Do not use 'textile' to describe non-woven materials like leather, plastic, or solid wood.
Fun facts
- The oldest known textiles date back over 30,000 years, found in a cave in the Republic of Georgia, where dyed flax fibers were discovered.
Related words
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