leather

[leth-er]

noun

1. the skin of an animal, with the hair removed, prepared for use by tanning or a similar process designed to preserve it against decay and make it pliable or supple when dry.

2. an article made of this material.

3. stirrup leather.

adjective

1. pertaining to, made of, or resembling leather.

   leather processing; leather upholstery.

2. Slang.,  catering to or patronized by customers who typically wear leather clothing, often as a means of signaling interest in or preference for sadomasochistic sexual activity.

verb (used with object)

1. to cover or furnish with leather.

2. Informal.,  to beat with a leather strap.

leather

/ ˈlɛðə /

noun

1. 1. a material consisting of the skin of an animal made smooth and flexible by tanning, removing the hair, etc

   2. ( as modifier )

      leather goods

2. (plural) leather clothes, esp as worn by motorcyclists

3. the flap of a dog's ear

verb

1. to cover with leather

2. to whip with or as if with a leather strap

Other Word Forms

• underleather noun
• unleathered adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of leather¹

before 1000; Middle English lether, Old English lether- (in compounds); cognate with Dutch, German leder, Old Norse lethr, MIr lethar skin, leather, Welsh lledr, Middle Breton lezr leather

Word History and Origins

Origin of leather¹

Old English lether- (in compound words); related to Old High German leder, Old Norse lethr-

Idioms and Phrases

see hell-bent for leather.

Example Sentences

Those who have met Victor say is the most charismatic of the quartet and the most sharply dressed, with designer brown leather boots making him look good even in an orange flight suit.

From BBC

He discovered he had a knack for pattern making in 2008 when he began creating hand-stitched leather jackets to wear to the Hollywood parties he had started attending with his now-fiancee.

From Los Angeles Times

She was last seen wearing a green puffer jacket and burgundy trousers and was carrying a black leather handbag.

From BBC

He wears wardrobe’s black leather jacket, with “Crazy Boys” across the back.

From Los Angeles Times

The school's website stated students must wear black leather or "leather-like" waterproof shoes, but does not explicitly ban trainers.

From BBC

Related Words

• skin