madras

¹

[mad-ruhs, muh-dras, -drahs]

noun

1. a light cotton fabric of various weaves, especially one in multicolored plaid or stripes, used for shirts, dresses, jackets, etc.

2. a thin curtain fabric of a light, gauzelike weave with figures of heavier yarns.

3. a large, brightly colored kerchief, of silk or cotton, often used for turbans.

adjective

1. made of or resembling madras.

Madras

²

[muh-dras, -drahs]

noun

1. former name of Chennai

2. former name of Tamil Nadu.

madras

¹

/ ˈmædrəs, məˈdræs, -ˈdrɑːs /

noun

1. 1. a strong fine cotton or silk fabric, usually with a woven stripe

   2. ( as modifier )

      madras cotton

2. something made of this, esp a scarf

3. a medium-hot curry

   chicken madras

Madras

²

/ məˈdrɑːs, -ˈdræs /

noun

1. the former official name of Chennai

2. the former name (until 1968) for the state of Tamil Nadu

Word History and Origins

Origin of madras¹

First recorded in 1825–35; named after Madras

Word History and Origins

Origin of madras¹

C19: by association with the _Madras area

Example Sentences

Spice-battered hake, triple-cooked chips in a madras salt, spiced dahl mushy peas, served with a mango and tomato ketchup and coriander and lime vinegar and a rum and pickled egg cocktail.

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The simplicity of a pair of clean khakis or the monstrous absurdity of a madras blazer’s multicolored patchwork construction are American heritage items.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Priming for summer found some “Real” madras shorts!

Read more on Seattle Times

Baldwin's Madras curry powder is a star-stellar addition in her personal recipe for madras curry apple doughnut muffins.

Read more on Salon

Tartan, tattersall and glen plaids evoke a refined and masculine feel, perfect for a formal living room or study, while madras has a casual association that can set the tone for a more laid-back space.

Read more on Washington Post