coverlet: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Literary, formal, or somewhat old-fashioned in everyday contexts. Common in descriptions of domestic interiors.
Quick answer
What does “coverlet” mean?
A decorative or lightweight bedspread, typically placed on top of other bedcovers.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A decorative or lightweight bedspread, typically placed on top of other bedcovers.
A smaller, often decorative covering for a bed or piece of furniture; can extend to mean a thin, protective layer or covering in poetic or descriptive contexts.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The term is understood and used similarly in both varieties, with slightly higher occurrence in British descriptions of domestic furnishings. 'Bedspread' is more common in everyday American English.
Connotations
In both varieties, it connotes a degree of traditional charm, craftsmanship, or decorative detail. May evoke a cottage, country-house, or heirloom aesthetic.
Frequency
Low frequency in contemporary casual speech; more frequent in written descriptions (novels, catalogs, interior design).
Grammar
How to Use “coverlet” in a Sentence
[V] + coverlet + (with [NP]) (The bed was draped with a coverlet.)[Adj] + coverlet + (on [NP]) (She smoothed the linen coverlet on the guest bed.)Vocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare. Possibly in the context of textile manufacturing or home furnishings retail.
Academic
Rare. May appear in historical, anthropological, or material culture studies discussing domestic artifacts.
Everyday
Limited. Used by individuals interested in interior decorating or describing traditional household items.
Technical
In textile or antique collecting circles to describe a specific type of bed covering.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “coverlet”
Strong
Weak
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “coverlet”
- Using it interchangeably with 'duvet' or 'comforter' (which are thicker and for warmth). Confusing it with a 'sheet' (which is directly under the body).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Very similar. A coverlet is often considered a type of lightweight, decorative bedspread, sometimes without side drapes (valances). The terms are often used interchangeably.
Typically, yes. It serves as a top layer on a bed. However, it is often lighter than a duvet or quilt, so in cold climates, it might be an additional decorative layer over warmer bedding.
It can sound somewhat traditional or literary in casual speech, where 'bedspread' or 'throw' is more common. It remains standard in descriptive writing and specific contexts like interior design.
Yes, the term can extend to a decorative throw or lightweight blanket used on sofas or chairs, though 'throw' is more specific for that use.
A decorative or lightweight bedspread, typically placed on top of other bedcovers.
Coverlet is usually literary, formal, or somewhat old-fashioned in everyday contexts. common in descriptions of domestic interiors. in register.
Coverlet: in British English it is pronounced /ˈkʌvəlɪt/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈkʌvərlɪt/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “under the coverlet (poetic/literary for 'in bed')”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a COVER that is LET (allowed) to be decorative and lighter than a duvet. COVER-LET = a light cover.
Conceptual Metaphor
A COVERLET IS A DECORATIVE SKIN FOR THE BED.
Practice
Quiz
In which context is the word 'coverlet' MOST likely to be used accurately?