care label: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Neutral, Technical/Commercial
Quick answer
What does “care label” mean?
A small fabric tag sewn into clothing or attached to household textiles that provides instructions for washing, drying, ironing, or other maintenance.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A small fabric tag sewn into clothing or attached to household textiles that provides instructions for washing, drying, ironing, or other maintenance.
A piece of information attached to an item providing guidelines for its proper handling, cleaning, or preservation. It can be used metaphorically to refer to essential instructions or warnings for handling a situation or object.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The term itself is identical. However, the symbols and specific terminology on the labels (e.g., 'tumble dry' vs. 'machine dry') may follow regional standards (e.g., UK/ISO vs. ASTM/FTCA).
Connotations
Neutral and functional in both dialects. Slightly more likely to be discussed in everyday conversation in the UK, where washing machine temperatures are often lower and more specific care is given.
Frequency
Slightly higher frequency in UK English, reflecting a stronger cultural emphasis on specific laundry care. In the US, the term is common but 'washing instructions' or 'tag' is also frequently used.
Grammar
How to Use “care label” in a Sentence
[det] care label (on [det] N)[det] care label (for [det] N)[det] care label (that S)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “care label” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The care-label information was faded.
- It's a care-label compliance issue.
American English
- The care-label information was faded.
- We need a care-label specialist.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Textile manufacturers must ensure all garments have a compliant care label before distribution.
Academic
The study analysed consumer comprehension of international care label symbols.
Everyday
Before you wash that jumper, check the care label to see if it's wool.
Technical
The care label must be permanently attached and legible, displaying symbols in accordance with ISO 3758.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “care label”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “care label”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “care label”
- Misplacing the space: 'carelabel' (incorrect). Using plural verb for singular compound: 'The care label are confusing' (should be 'is').
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
In many countries, yes. Regulations (like the UK's Textile Products Regulations or the US's Care Labeling Rule) often require them for consumer protection.
They are standardized pictograms representing washing temperature, bleach use, ironing heat, drying method, and professional cleaning options. Specifics can vary by region.
You can, but it's not recommended if you might forget the instructions. For some people, the material can be irritating, so cutting it out is a common practice after noting the information.
It is a compound noun written as two separate words: 'care label'.
A small fabric tag sewn into clothing or attached to household textiles that provides instructions for washing, drying, ironing, or other maintenance.
Care label is usually neutral, technical/commercial in register.
Care label: in British English it is pronounced /ˈkeə ˌleɪ.bəl/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈker ˌleɪ.bəl/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Read the fine print (related concept)”
- “Follow the instructions to the letter (related concept)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: A LABEL that tells you how to CARE for something.
Conceptual Metaphor
INSTRUCTIONS ARE A MAP (The label guides you through the process of care). OBJECT MAINTENANCE IS HEALTHCARE (You 'care' for an item as you care for health).
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary purpose of a care label?