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

He shoved his hair out of his face and picked up his broadcloth jacket from the floor, draping it strategically over his arm.

From Literature

Wearing blouses and broadcloth skirts and handwoven belts, they formed a slower-moving, dignified circle around the male dancers, keeping their torsos and heads straight as they bobbed up and down with each step.

From Literature

The leather packet was lined with broadcloth and into the cloth two needles were stuck.

From Literature

Wool broadcloth was the traditional option, although Hansen sometimes substitutes less expensive fabrics when a customer’s budget is especially tight, Murray said.

From Washington Post

The grandfather was dressed in a black broadcloth suit and he wore kid congress gaiters and a black tie on a short, hard collar.

From Literature