bedclothes: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Formal, somewhat dated, or technical (e.g., in laundry contexts).
Quick answer
What does “bedclothes” mean?
The sheets, blankets, and other coverings used on a bed.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The sheets, blankets, and other coverings used on a bed.
A collective term for all the textile layers placed on a bed for warmth, comfort, and hygiene, typically including sheets, duvets, blankets, and bedspreads.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
More commonly used in British English. In American English, 'bedding' or 'linens' is often preferred, especially in domestic contexts.
Connotations
In both varieties, can sound slightly old-fashioned or formal. In British English, it may still appear in instructions (e.g., laundry labels) or literary contexts.
Frequency
Low frequency in contemporary spoken English for both varieties, with higher occurrence in written British English.
Grammar
How to Use “bedclothes” in a Sentence
strip off the bedclotheschange the bedclothestuck in the bedclothesburrow under the bedclothesVocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare. Might appear in the hospitality or textile manufacturing industries (e.g., 'supplier of hotel bedclothes').
Academic
Rare. Could appear in historical, sociological, or textile studies discussing domestic material culture.
Everyday
Low frequency. An older generation might use it. More common to hear 'change the sheets' or 'put clean bedding on'.
Technical
Used in laundry care labels, hospital/hotel inventory management, and textile care instructions.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “bedclothes”
- Using it as a singular noun (e.g., 'a bedcloth').
- Confusing it with 'nightclothes' or 'sleepwear'.
- Using it in overly casual contexts where 'sheets' or 'covers' would be more natural.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is a plural noun (like 'clothes') and takes plural verb forms: 'The bedclothes *are* dirty.'
They are largely synonymous. 'Bedclothes' is slightly more formal/dated and specifically refers to the removable coverings. 'Bedding' is more common in modern English and can be a broader category, sometimes including the mattress pad or pillows.
No, 'bedcloth' is not a standard English word. The term is always plural: 'bedclothes'.
It is understood but less common than in British English. Americans are more likely to say 'bedding', 'sheets and blankets', or 'linens' in everyday conversation.
The sheets, blankets, and other coverings used on a bed.
Bedclothes is usually formal, somewhat dated, or technical (e.g., in laundry contexts). in register.
Bedclothes: in British English it is pronounced /ˈbedkləʊðz/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈbedkloʊðz/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[No common idioms specifically with 'bedclothes'. The word itself is rarely used idiomatically.]”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'BED' + 'CLOTHES' – literally, the 'clothes' you put on your bed.
Conceptual Metaphor
BED IS A PERSON (that can be dressed).
Practice
Quiz
In which context is the word 'bedclothes' MOST likely to be used today?