poplin

American  

[pop-lin] / ˈpɒp lɪn /

noun

1. a finely corded fabric of cotton, rayon, silk, or wool, for dresses, draperies, etc.

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poplin British  

/ ˈpɒplɪn /

noun

1. 1. a strong fabric, usually of cotton, in plain weave with fine ribbing, used for dresses, children's wear, etc

   2. ( as modifier )

      a poplin shirt

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Etymology

Origin of poplin

1700–10; < French popeline, earlier papeline < Italian papalina, feminine of papalino papal; so called from being made at the papal city of Avignon. See papal, -ine ¹

Compare meaning

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

• broadcloth vs. poplin

Explanation

Poplin is a sturdy fabric woven in a simple crosswise pattern that's finely ribbed. Many different types of clothing are made from poplin, like button-down shirts and summer dresses. A material is defined as poplin based on the way its fibers are woven together. Poplin is often made from cotton, but it can also be silk, wool, or polyester. Poplin's plain weave is the most basic method; it results in strong fabric with a soft sheen. Originally, poplin was made in France from a blend of fibers, and the word is from the French papeline, "cloth of fine silk and worsted wool."

Example Sentences

The Panthers were limited to five hits by sophomore pitchers Kasen Poplin and August Backman.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 11, 2025

“Before buying something new, see if someone in your area may be giving an item away,” says Julianna Poplin of the Simplicity Habit.

From Washington Post • Aug. 30, 2022

Instead, they discussed retirement plans, women and the recovery process, as Jerry Poplin, a guide for more than 40 years, steered his pontoon boat downstream.

From Washington Times • Jul. 26, 2015

Poplin, the cotton fabric also called broadcloth, is the most common shirt material in the world, and PYE has worked to refine its presentation.

From New York Times • Jan. 13, 2013

Are offering, at about one-half the cost of manufacture, a large lot of Children's and Misses' Plain, Chine and Plaid Poplin Suits, Handsomely Trimmed, Suitable for the present Season, $3 each, upwards.

From Punchinello, Volume 1, No. 25, September 17, 1870 by Various