velour

American  

[vuh-loor] / vəˈlʊər /

French velours

noun

1. a velvetlike fabric of rayon, wool, or any of several other natural or synthetic fibers, used for outerwear and upholstery.

2. a velvety fur felt, as of beaver, for hats.

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velour British  

/ vɛˈlʊə /

noun

1. any of various fabrics with a velvet-like finish, used for upholstery, coats, hats, etc

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Etymology

Origin of velour

1700–10; earlier velours < French, Middle French; Old French velous < Old Provençal velos velvet < Latin villōsus hairy. See villus, -ose ¹

Explanation

Velour is a fabric that's as soft as velvet but much stretchier. Because it's somewhat inexpensive, you can afford those plush, pink velour pajamas! Velour is a more affordable, sturdier version of velvet. It's also a versatile fabric because it's knitted rather than woven, giving it some stretch. This material is used for clothing, toys, throw pillows, and other home furnishings. The word velour dates from the 18th century, from the French velours, "velvet," and a root meaning "shaggy." The fabric itself is also a French invention, although the exact details are lost to history.

Example Sentences

The only piece of furniture that anchored the living room was a pink velour couch from Sunbeam Vintage in Highland Park.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 4, 2026

If you’ve been on the internet in the past few months, chances are you’ve scrolled past them: four 20-somethings, clad in Pepto-pink velour track suits and yellow sneakers, dancing and harmonizing.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 28, 2026

Maybe it was the group's choreography in their signature pink velour tracksuits and bright yellow trainers.

From BBC • Dec. 19, 2025

That includes velour galore, low-rise jeans, mini skirts and graphic T-shirts.

From Seattle Times • Nov. 20, 2023

She’s rocking her signature Brooklyn loves Haiti T-shirt and pink velour sweatpants, even though it’ll be hot as hell in that kitchen.

From "Pride" by Ibi Zoboi

Related Words

• velvety