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

Williams' cautiousness about going under the knife suggests he still has ambitions to continue on the baize for years to come - and who can blame him.

From BBC • Apr. 17, 2026

"They would have the whole conversation, then he would go home and type it all up. Then they would meet at Broadcasting House across a green baize table and read the script to each other."

From BBC • Oct. 12, 2022

Its green baize surface is all but obscured by papers and manuscripts – even, sometimes, a folder or two containing fragments of ancient papyrus.

From The Guardian • Jan. 9, 2020

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

A little bald man was seated fully clothed at a round table draped in ivory baize, his hands neatly folded beside an untouched silver coffee tray.

From "Six of Crows" by Leigh Bardugo