pillow sham

American  

noun

1. an ornamental cover laid over a bed pillow.

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pillow sham British  

noun

1. a decorative cover for a bed pillow

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Etymology

Origin of pillow sham

First recorded in 1870–75

Compare meaning

How does pillow-sham compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• pillow sham vs. pillowcase

Example Sentences

A hidden zipper is then attached to the bottom with a back flap, allowing effortless pillow sham change-up seasonally.

From Seattle Times • Aug. 3, 2023

Instead, I worked on embroidering a pillow sham as I waited for the cool of the evening.

From "Red Scarf Girl: A Memoir of the Cultural Revolution" by Ji-li Jiang

It gave me the creeps, helping Grandpa slip his pillow sham of roses under Granny’s head.

From "Cold Sassy Tree" by Olive Ann Burns

That tent of ours has stuck out on the landscape like a horse fly on a pillow sham.

From Hepsey Burke by Westcott, Frank N. (Frank Noyes)

R was a rollicking Ram, Attired in an old pillow sham.

From The Jingle Book by Herford, Oliver