flannelette: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Neutral, leaning slightly towards informal. Common in descriptive contexts (e.g., product descriptions, domestic settings).
Quick answer
What does “flannelette” mean?
A soft, napped cotton fabric, typically lightweight and brushed on one side to resemble flannel.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A soft, napped cotton fabric, typically lightweight and brushed on one side to resemble flannel.
Can refer specifically to garments, bed linens, or cleaning cloths made from this fabric. Often associated with comfort, warmth, and a soft, fuzzy texture.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
In the UK, 'flannelette' is the common term for this brushed cotton fabric, especially for nightwear and sheets. In the US, 'flannel' is often used as a generic term that can include flannelette, though 'cotton flannel' or 'brushed cotton' are more precise equivalents.
Connotations
UK: Strongly associated with traditional pyjamas and cold-weather bedding. US: Less distinct from 'flannel', which is also heavily associated with plaid shirts.
Frequency
More frequent and clearly defined in British English. In American English, the specific term 'flannelette' is less common in everyday speech.
Grammar
How to Use “flannelette” in a Sentence
made of flanneletteflannelette [noun][noun] in flanneletteVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “flannelette” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- She bought some flannelette material to make a winter nightie.
- The flannelette lining makes the jacket incredibly cosy.
American English
- Look for flannelette-lined trousers for the camping trip.
- It's just a simple flannelette bathrobe.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used in textile manufacturing, retail (homeware, clothing).
Academic
Rare, except in historical or material culture studies.
Everyday
Common when discussing bedding, nightwear, or fabric for sewing projects.
Technical
Used in textile industry to specify a napped, plain-weave cotton fabric.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “flannelette”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “flannelette”
- Misspelling as 'flanellete' or 'flannelet'.
- Using 'flannel' and 'flannelette' interchangeably without noting the material difference (wool/cotton vs. cotton).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, not precisely. Flannelette is specifically a napped cotton fabric. 'Flannel' can be made from wool, cotton, or synthetic fibres. Flannelette is often considered a lighter, cotton-based imitation of wool flannel.
Generally, no. It is designed to trap body heat and is therefore primarily used for autumn and winter bedding or sleepwear.
To maintain its softness, wash it in warm water with similar colours and avoid high heat in the dryer, which can damage the nap.
Historically, untreated cotton flannelette was more flammable than wool flannel, leading to safety campaigns. Modern flannelette is often treated with flame retardants for nightwear.
A soft, napped cotton fabric, typically lightweight and brushed on one side to resemble flannel.
Flannelette is usually neutral, leaning slightly towards informal. common in descriptive contexts (e.g., product descriptions, domestic settings). in register.
Flannelette: in British English it is pronounced /ˌflæn.əˈlɛt/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌflæn.əˈlɛt/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “none”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'Flannel' + the feminine diminutive '-ette' = a lighter, softer, 'little sister' version of flannel fabric.
Conceptual Metaphor
COMFORT IS SOFTNESS / WARMTH IS FUZZINESS.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary characteristic of flannelette?