broadcloth

[brawd-klawth, -kloth]

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.

broadcloth

/ 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

Word History and Origins

Origin of broadcloth¹

First recorded in 1400–50, broadcloth is from late Middle English brode clothe. See broad, cloth

Example Sentences

He first played there in 1937, in the depths of the Great Depression, when players wore broadcloth shirts and neckties, and corn whisky flowed at the tournament Bobby Jones called the Augusta National Invitation.

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

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As he lifted his hand to knock he heard steps, so he withheld his hand until a big man in black broadcloth trousers and a stiff bosomed white shirt without collar opened the door.

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He dressed like a great man—black broadcloth coat and trousers, wide black hat, overcoat with a velvet collar, ebony cane which he made to seem a sword.

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He looked impressive, in his cinnamon broadcloth coat and the fine linen shirt.

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