Canton flannel

noun

a plain-weave or twill-weave cotton fabric with a long, fleecy nap usually on one side only, used for sportswear, undergarments, backings and linings, etc.

Origin of Canton flannel

1880–85; after Canton, China

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2018

Examples from the Web for canton flannel

Historical Examples of canton flannel

Have they any good Canton-flannel, suitable for a person of medium complexion?
Punchinello Vol. 1, No. 21, August 20, 1870
Various
On the large scale, the finer oils of this kind are often filtered through Canton-flannel bags.
Cooley's Practical Receipts, Volume II
Arnold Cooley
If a large cloth is used, put it on over the canton-flannel "silence cloth."
The Expert Maid-Servant
Cristine Terhune Herrick
When setting the table, cover first with a canton-flannel or felt cloth, in order to prevent noise and protect the table.
Public School Domestic Science
Mrs. J. Hoodless

British Dictionary definitions for canton flannel

Canton flannel

noun

another name for cotton flannel

Word Origin for Canton flannel

C19: named after Canton, China

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012