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