leather

American  

[leth-er] / ˈlɛð ər /

noun

1. the skin of an animal, with the hair removed, prepared for use by tanning or a similar process designed to preserve it against decay and make it pliable or supple when dry.

2. an article made of this material.

3. stirrup leather.

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adjective

1. pertaining to, made of, or resembling leather.

   leather processing; leather upholstery.

2. Slang. catering to or patronized by customers who typically wear leather clothing, often as a means of signaling interest in or preference for sadomasochistic sexual activity.

verb (used with object)

1. to cover or furnish with leather.

2. Informal. to beat with a leather strap.

leather British  

/ ˈlɛðə /

noun

1. 1. a material consisting of the skin of an animal made smooth and flexible by tanning, removing the hair, etc

   2. ( as modifier )

      leather goods

2. (plural) leather clothes, esp as worn by motorcyclists

3. the flap of a dog's ear

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verb

1. to cover with leather

2. to whip with or as if with a leather strap

leather Idioms  

1. see hell-bent for leather.

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Other Word Forms

• underleather noun
• unleathered adjective

Etymology

Origin of leather

before 1000; Middle English lether, Old English lether- (in compounds); cognate with Dutch, German leder, Old Norse lethr, MIr lethar skin, leather, Welsh lledr, Middle Breton lezr leather

Example Sentences

She held up another one, dressed in leather.

From Literature

The book Miss Priest pulled from the bottom drawer of her desk felt as if it had been bound with real leather.

From Literature

It was a thick needle, a gauge meant for leather, not cloth, but as soon as it was in my hand, I felt instantly better.

From Literature

They include costume craft, which teaches students about sustainable leather, embroidery and sewing skills while making outfits for the film and television industry.

From BBC

It is commonly used as a preservative, an antibacterial agent, and in leather tanning.

From Science Daily

Related Words

• skin