broadcloth

American  

[brawd-klawth, -kloth] / ˈbrɔdˌklɔθ, -ˌklɒθ /

noun

Textiles.

1. a closely woven dress-goods fabric of cotton, rayon, silk, or a mixture of these fibers, having a soft, mercerized finish and resembling poplin.

2. a woolen or worsted fabric constructed in a plain or twill weave, having a compact texture and lustrous finish.

3. any fabric woven on a wide loom.

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broadcloth British  

/ ˈbrɔːdˌklɒθ /

noun

1. fabric woven on a wide loom

2. a closely woven fabric of wool, worsted, cotton, or rayon with lustrous finish, used for clothing

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Etymology

Origin of broadcloth

First recorded in 1400–50, broadcloth is from late Middle English brode clothe. See broad, cloth

Compare meaning

How does broadcloth compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• broadcloth vs. poplin

Example Sentences

Pensive, who clocks 2:04.2, is third entering the stretch and wears down Broadcloth and Stir Up.

From Washington Times • Apr. 29, 2021

He sat on the Rostrum wearing Black Broadcloth, betokening Virtue, and in addition to his ancient Trade-Marks, the White Shirt and the White Vest, he had a White Bow Tie.

From People You Know by Ade, George

The greatest precautions were taken after the "Broadcloth Mob" to ensure his safety.

From William Lloyd Garrison The Abolitionist by Grimké, Archibald Henry

An honest man, close-button'd to the chin, Broadcloth without, and a warm heart within.

From Familiar Quotations A Collection of Passages, Phrases, and Proverbs Traced to Their Sources in Ancient and Modern Literature by Bartlett, John

Broadcloth was woven in those days, but not very commonly, for it needed a specially constructed loom and two weavers, one for each side, because of the width of the cloth.

From In the Days of the Guild by Lamprey, Louise