madras

¹ American  

[mad-ruhs, muh-dras, -drahs] / ˈmæd rəs, məˈdræs, -ˈdrɑs /

noun

1. a light cotton fabric of various weaves, especially one in multicolored plaid or stripes, used for shirts, dresses, jackets, etc.

2. a thin curtain fabric of a light, gauzelike weave with figures of heavier yarns.

3. a large, brightly colored kerchief, of silk or cotton, often used for turbans.

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adjective

1. made of or resembling madras.

Madras ² American  

[muh-dras, -drahs] / məˈdræs, -ˈdrɑs /

noun

1. former name of Chennai

2. former name of Tamil Nadu.

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madras ¹ British  

/ ˈmædrəs, məˈdræs, -ˈdrɑːs /

noun

1. 1. a strong fine cotton or silk fabric, usually with a woven stripe

   2. ( as modifier )

      madras cotton

2. something made of this, esp a scarf

3. a medium-hot curry

   chicken madras

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Madras ² British  

/ məˈdrɑːs, -ˈdræs /

noun

1. the former official name of Chennai

2. the former name (until 1968) for the state of Tamil Nadu

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Etymology

Origin of madras

First recorded in 1825–35; named after Madras

Example Sentences

Spice-battered hake, triple-cooked chips in a madras salt, spiced dahl mushy peas, served with a mango and tomato ketchup and coriander and lime vinegar and a rum and pickled egg cocktail.

From BBC

The simplicity of a pair of clean khakis or the monstrous absurdity of a madras blazer’s multicolored patchwork construction are American heritage items.

From Los Angeles Times

Priming for summer found some “Real” madras shorts!

From Seattle Times

Baldwin's Madras curry powder is a star-stellar addition in her personal recipe for madras curry apple doughnut muffins.

From Salon

Tartan, tattersall and glen plaids evoke a refined and masculine feel, perfect for a formal living room or study, while madras has a casual association that can set the tone for a more laid-back space.

From Washington Post