gaberdine: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Formal to neutral, often technical in fashion/textile contexts.
Quick answer
What does “gaberdine” mean?
A durable, closely woven twill fabric, typically made of worsted or cotton, used for suits, trousers, and coats. It is characterized by its fine diagonal ribbing.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A durable, closely woven twill fabric, typically made of worsted or cotton, used for suits, trousers, and coats. It is characterized by its fine diagonal ribbing.
1. A garment, especially a long, loose coat or frock, traditionally made from this fabric and worn historically by pilgrims or Jewish people. 2. Sometimes used as a generic term for a raincoat made of gaberdine fabric.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The spelling 'gaberdine' is standard in both. The spelling 'gabardine' is also common, especially in American English. The fabric itself is identical.
Connotations
In both varieties, the word carries connotations of durability, classic style (like a trench coat), and slightly formal or traditional attire.
Frequency
Equally low-frequency in both, though its use is sustained in specific industries (tailoring, fashion manufacturing) and historical description.
Grammar
How to Use “gaberdine” in a Sentence
made of gaberdinea gaberdine of [material/colour]cut from gaberdineVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “gaberdine” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- He preferred a gaberdine mac for the unpredictable British weather.
American English
- The gaberdine slacks were perfect for the office dress code.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used in manufacturing, retail, and tailoring sectors to specify fabric type for garments.
Academic
Appears in historical, literary, and fashion/textile studies contexts.
Everyday
Rare. Might be used when describing the material of a specific item of clothing, e.g., 'My raincoat is gaberdine.'
Technical
Precise term in textiles for a specific twill-weave fabric.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “gaberdine”
- Confusing 'gaberdine' (fabric) with 'gabaridine' (a type of clerical vestment). Misspelling as 'gabardeen' or 'gaberdyne'. Using it to describe a style rather than a material.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, they refer to the same fabric. 'Gabardine' is a common alternative spelling.
It is ideal for tailored garments like suits, trousers, and coats (especially trench coats) due to its durability, tight weave, and resistance to weather.
It was invented in the late 19th century by Thomas Burberry and remains in use, particularly for classic, high-quality outerwear and suiting.
Yes, if made from lightweight cotton or blended fibres. Traditional wool gaberdine is more suited to cooler weather.
A durable, closely woven twill fabric, typically made of worsted or cotton, used for suits, trousers, and coats. It is characterized by its fine diagonal ribbing.
Gaberdine is usually formal to neutral, often technical in fashion/textile contexts. in register.
Gaberdine: in British English it is pronounced /ˈɡæbədiːn/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈɡæbərˌdiːn/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None specific to this word.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
A fine, diagonal 'gab' of fabric you can lean against; it's durable like a 'berdeen' terrier.
Conceptual Metaphor
DURABILITY IS SOLIDITY / CLASSIC STYLE IS TIMELESSNESS (e.g., 'the timeless gaberdine trench').
Practice
Quiz
In which famous Shakespeare play does a character notably wear a gaberdine?