plural cloths ˈklȯt͟hz How to pronounce cloth (audio) ˈklȯths How to pronounce cloth (audio)
often attributive
1
a
: a pliable material made usually by weaving, felting, or knitting natural or synthetic fibers and filaments
terry cloth
a linen cloth
b
: a similar material (as of glass)
Woven glass cloth produces a strong laminate.
2
: a piece of cloth adapted for a particular purpose
especially : tablecloth
3
a
: a distinctive dress of a profession or calling
b
: the dress of the clergy
also : clergy
had respect for the cloth

Examples of cloth in a Sentence

The dress is made out of a beautiful silk cloth. Wipe the surface with a clean dry cloth. He has great respect for the cloth.
Recent Examples on the Web On the other hand, artificial, or vegan leather, only needs to be cleaned with a slightly damp cloth. L. Daniela Alvarez, Better Homes & Gardens, 7 Mar. 2024 Use a squeegee, followed by wipes with a microfiber cloth to remove any streaks. Jeanne Huber, Washington Post, 1 Mar. 2024 Between uses, wiping cloths are supposed to be in a sanitizing solution that’s 100 parts per million. David J. Neal, Miami Herald, 1 Mar. 2024 Clean electric can openers with a damp cloth and dry thoroughly. Kaitlyn Yarborough, Southern Living, 27 Feb. 2024 Signs must be made of a soft material that can be folded (e.g. poster board or cloth). Ed Masley, The Arizona Republic, 21 Feb. 2024 What does the Apple Vision Pro come with? Apple Vision Pro comes with a solo knit band, dual loop band, a light seal, two light seal cushions, a cover for the front of the device, a polishing cloth, a battery, a USB-C charge cable and a USB-C power adapter. Haadiza Ogwude, The Enquirer, 23 Feb. 2024 Many of the parts are dishwasher-safe, making cleaning a breeze, but the brand also recommends wiping down the bottom of the device with a damp cloth or antibacterial wipe from time to time. Toni Sutton, Peoplemag, 21 Feb. 2024 Microfiber pads or cloths can typically be put in the washing machine with regular detergent or cleaned in the sink. Alida Nugent, Better Homes & Gardens, 15 Feb. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'cloth.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Old English clāth cloth, garment; akin to Middle High German kleit garment

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of cloth was before the 12th century

Dictionary Entries Near cloth

Cite this Entry

“Cloth.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cloth. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

cloth

noun
plural cloths ˈklȯt͟hz How to pronounce cloth (audio) ˈklȯths How to pronounce cloth (audio)
1
: a woven or knitted material (as of cotton or nylon)
2
: a piece of cloth used for a particular purpose
a polishing cloth
3

More from Merriam-Webster on cloth

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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