dry goods

American  

plural noun

1. textile fabrics and related merchandise, as distinguished from groceries, hardware, etc.

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Etymology

Origin of dry goods

First recorded in 1695–1705

Example Sentences

Political leaders across the country were encouraging people to stock up on food and dry goods, prepare first aid and supply kits and keep their vehicle gas tanks full to prevent fuel lines from freezing.

From Barron's • Jan. 23, 2026

The proliferating railroad network had reduced distribution costs, and Ward realized there was a large market for delivering dry goods to railroad depots.

From The Wall Street Journal • Sep. 27, 2025

There are also various donation points at supermarkets across Lincoln where dry goods can be dropped off.

From BBC • Jun. 11, 2025

The second building next door was a dry goods shop.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 22, 2024

In the store we sold fresh produce my cousins brought in from their truck farm, and also dry goods and a little ammunition.

From "The Poisonwood Bible" by Barbara Kingsolver