tartan

American  

[tahr-tn] / ˈtɑr tn /

noun

1. a woolen or worsted cloth woven with stripes of different colors and widths crossing at right angles, worn chiefly by the Scottish Highlanders, each clan having its own distinctive plaid.

2. a design of such a plaid known by the name of the clan wearing it.

3. any plaid.

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adjective

1. of, relating to, or resembling tartan.

2. made of tartan.

tartan ¹ British  

/ ˈtɑːtən /

noun

1. 1. a design of straight lines, crossing at right angles to give a chequered appearance, esp the distinctive design or designs associated with each Scottish clan

      the Buchanan tartan

   2. ( as modifier )

      a tartan kilt

2. a woollen fabric or garment with this design

3. Highland dress

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tartan ² British  

/ ˈtɑːtən /

noun

1. a single-masted vessel used in the Mediterranean, usually with a lateen sail

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Other Word Forms

• tartaned adjective

Etymology

Origin of tartan

1490–1500; variant of tertane < Middle French tertaine ( Old French tiretaine ) linsey-woolsey

Example Sentences

“Our own personal holiday theme this year is velvet and bows or tartan and tinsel,” Scott added before allowing Brown to get to work.

From MarketWatch

A Ralph Lauren Christmas is defined by rich textures: wool, velvet, leather, dark woods, classic tartan patterns, pine cones and candles.

From The Wall Street Journal

"Back in 1998, we had this outfit with tartan trews, a pinky lilac shirt, and these tartan waistcoats, which we were so proud of," Kennedy remembers.

From BBC

There’s plenty to love about “Blood of My Blood,” especially a return to the 18th century Highlands, with tartans, castles and craggy tors aplenty.

From Los Angeles Times

The late Queen's more everyday clothes will also be on show, including riding jackets, tartan skirts and headscarves.

From BBC

Related Words

• jumble
• mishmash
• plaid