crimplene: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowSpecific / Trademark / Historical
Quick answer
What does “crimplene” mean?
A trademark for a type of synthetic polyester fabric that is crease-resistant.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A trademark for a type of synthetic polyester fabric that is crease-resistant.
A type of wrinkle-resistant fabric, often with a slightly ribbed texture, made from polyester fibers. By extension, it can refer to clothing made from this material, particularly in mid-20th century fashion.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The term is recognized in both varieties, but it is more commonly used and known in British English due to its historical popularity in the UK. In American English, the generic term 'polyester' or 'double knit' is more likely.
Connotations
In the UK, it evokes a specific 1960s/70s fashion aesthetic. In the US, if recognized, it has similar retro connotations but is less culturally embedded.
Frequency
Much more frequent in UK historical or fashion contexts. Very rare in contemporary American English.
Grammar
How to Use “crimplene” in a Sentence
[be made] of crimplenea [garment] in crimplenethe crimplene [of the suit]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “crimplene” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- His crimplene suit was a relic from a bygone era.
- The charity shop had a rack of crimplene blouses.
American English
- She found a vintage crimplene pantsuit at the thrift store. (Note: 'pantsuit' is more US)
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
In historical textile industry contexts.
Academic
In fashion history, material culture studies, or sociology of fashion.
Everyday
When discussing vintage clothing or retro fashion; otherwise very rare.
Technical
In textile engineering or fabric specification, though the trademark is largely historical.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “crimplene”
- Misspelling as 'crimpline' or 'crimpeline'. Using it as a general term for any synthetic fabric (it is a specific type).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
The trademark is less commonly used, but similar polyester fabrics are still produced. Original vintage Crimplene garments are collectible.
It peaked in popularity during that decade, symbolising modern, easy-care, and affordable fashion, often in bright colours and bold patterns.
No, it's technically a specific trademark for a type of textured, bulked continuous filament polyester. Using it generically is informal and historically specific.
It was marketed as 'wash-and-wear'. Typically, it can be machine washed in cool water and dries quickly with minimal ironing, if any.
A trademark for a type of synthetic polyester fabric that is crease-resistant.
Crimplene is usually specific / trademark / historical in register.
Crimplene: in British English it is pronounced /ˈkrɪmpliːn/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈkrɪmpliːn/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None specific to the word.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'crimp' (a fold or wave) + 'lene' (like in polyester names: Terylene, Dacron). It's a fabric that stays smooth even if you crimp it.
Conceptual Metaphor
MATERIAL FOR ERA (e.g., 'The 1970s was the age of crimplene and disco.')
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary characteristic of Crimplene fabric?