poplin

American  

[pop-lin] / ˈpɒp lɪn /

noun

1. a finely corded fabric of cotton, rayon, silk, or wool, for dresses, draperies, etc.

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poplin British  

/ ˈpɒplɪn /

noun

1. 1. a strong fabric, usually of cotton, in plain weave with fine ribbing, used for dresses, children's wear, etc

   2. ( as modifier )

      a poplin shirt

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Etymology

Origin of poplin

1700–10; < French popeline, earlier papeline < Italian papalina, feminine of papalino papal; so called from being made at the papal city of Avignon. See papal, -ine ¹

Compare meaning

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

• broadcloth vs. poplin

Explanation

Poplin is a sturdy fabric woven in a simple crosswise pattern that's finely ribbed. Many different types of clothing are made from poplin, like button-down shirts and summer dresses. A material is defined as poplin based on the way its fibers are woven together. Poplin is often made from cotton, but it can also be silk, wool, or polyester. Poplin's plain weave is the most basic method; it results in strong fabric with a soft sheen. Originally, poplin was made in France from a blend of fibers, and the word is from the French papeline, "cloth of fine silk and worsted wool."

Example Sentences

The collection starts with form-fitting, slightly cropped bodysuits crafted from poplin shirting, in industrial colors like gray and ivory.

From Seattle Times • Sep. 22, 2022

Her ethos continues to live on, most recently in a $898 cotton poplin dress from designer Tory Burch which has “a timeless shape designed to have a modern attitude and movement.”

From Washington Post • Sep. 17, 2022

Yet the low-slung trousers with rolled cuffs, the low-waist flight suits, the waxed poplin trenches and the fuzzy sweaters looked to be no more inherently French than the French Laundry, Thomas Keller’s storied restaurant.

From New York Times • Jul. 15, 2020

An office-ready white poplin shirt and knitted tank top were transformed into the undergarments of a layered black organza column dress, worn by a man with hairy legs, pop socks and black rubber Mary Janes.

From Washington Times • Feb. 27, 2019

Instead of wheeling your cart out to the parking lot, a cart boy in a pressed poplin shirt hung a number on it and handed you a matching red-and-white tag.

From "Little Fires Everywhere" by Celeste Ng