madras

[ 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.

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

adjective
  1. made of or resembling madras.

Origin of madras

1
First recorded in 1825–35; named after Madras

Words Nearby madras

Other definitions for Madras (2 of 2)

Madras
[ muh-dras, -drahs ]

noun
  1. former name of Chennai

  2. former name of Tamil Nadu.

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2024

How to use madras in a sentence

  • Today we perceived the low ranges of the Rajmahal Hills, the first we had seen since we left madras.

  • Through the mists I could see a way, even if I failed to find madras and arrange another surprising situation.

    Mrs. Falchion, Complete | Gilbert Parker
  • I had promised madras never to let her know that he was alive, but I would break the promise if madras himself did not come.

    Mrs. Falchion, Complete | Gilbert Parker

British Dictionary definitions for madras (1 of 2)

madras

/ (ˈmædrəs, məˈdræs, -ˈdrɑːs) /


noun
    • a strong fine cotton or silk fabric, usually with a woven stripe

    • (as modifier): madras cotton

  1. something made of this, esp a scarf

  1. a medium-hot curry: chicken madras

Origin of madras

1
C19: by association with the Madras area

British Dictionary definitions for Madras (2 of 2)

Madras

/ (məˈdrɑːs, -ˈdræs) /


noun
  1. the former official name of Chennai

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

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