baize

American  

[beyz] / beɪz /

noun

1. a soft, usually green, woolen or cotton fabric resembling felt, used chiefly for the tops of billiard tables.

2. an article of this fabric or of a fabric resembling it.

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verb (used with object)

baized, baizing

1. to line or cover with baize.

baize British  

/ beɪz /

noun

1. a woollen fabric resembling felt, usually green, used mainly for the tops of billiard tables

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verb

1. (tr) to line or cover with such fabric

Etymology

Origin of baize

1570–80; earlier bayes < French baies (noun), Old French ( estoffes fabrics) baies, feminine plural of bai (adj.) bay ⁵

Example Sentences

The green baize was where he would first make his mark.

From BBC • Feb. 4, 2026

The parlor we are in reflects the 18th century, with its deep red walls and marble fireplace flanked by green baize card tables.

From New York Times • Sep. 10, 2018

This is a day sale, so comparatively small, and in the low light paintings blaze from the black baize walls.

From Salon • Jul. 14, 2013

Featuring seven breaks over 70 and rounded off by two centuries, it ended with O'Sullivan 5-3 up and voicing concerns about the speed of the baize.

From The Guardian • May 5, 2013

Five minutes later, walking on my toes and trembling terribly, I passed through the green baize door and entered the sacred precincts where the Headmaster lived.

From "Boy: Tales of a Childhood" by Roald Dahl