gore-tex: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Neutral to Technical
Quick answer
What does “gore-tex” mean?
A trademark for a waterproof, breathable fabric membrane often used in outdoor clothing and gear.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A trademark for a waterproof, breathable fabric membrane often used in outdoor clothing and gear.
Often used generically to refer to high-performance, waterproof, and windproof outerwear and equipment.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning. Spelling is consistent (capitalised, hyphenated). The product is equally known and used.
Connotations
Connotes high quality, reliability, and technical innovation in outdoor apparel in both regions.
Frequency
Equally frequent in contexts discussing outdoor activities, hiking, and technical gear.
Grammar
How to Use “gore-tex” in a Sentence
[article] + Gore-Tex + noun (e.g., a Gore-Tex jacket)made of Gore-Texlined with Gore-Texfeatures Gore-TexVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “gore-tex” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The jacket has a Gore-Tex laminate for ultimate protection.
- Are these walking trousers Gore-Tex certified?
American English
- I need a Gore-Tex shell for my ski trip.
- These hiking boots feature a Gore-Tex liner.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used in marketing, retail, and product descriptions for outdoor apparel.
Academic
Rare; may appear in materials science or textile engineering contexts.
Everyday
Common in discussions about clothing for rainy weather, hiking, or camping.
Technical
Specific to outdoor gear reviews, manufacturing specs, and fabric technology.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “gore-tex”
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “gore-tex”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “gore-tex”
- Writing it as 'gortex', 'goretex', or 'Goretex' (must be capitalised and hyphenated).
- Using it as a standalone noun (e.g., 'I'm wearing a Gore-Tex' – should be 'a Gore-Tex jacket').
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is a membrane made from expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE), a synthetic polymer, which is laminated between other fabric layers.
Yes, but it requires specific care, usually with a technical detergent, to avoid damaging the durable water repellent (DWR) coating on the outer fabric.
Under normal conditions, yes. However, water pressure (like sitting on wet ground) can eventually force water through, and its effectiveness can degrade if not properly cared for.
Gore-Tex is a specific brand and technology. Its key claim is a unique balance of waterproofness and breathability, backed by rigorous testing standards that licensed manufacturers must meet.
A trademark for a waterproof, breathable fabric membrane often used in outdoor clothing and gear.
Gore-tex is usually neutral to technical in register.
Gore-tex: in British English it is pronounced /ˈɡɔː.tɛks/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈɡɔr.tɛks/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'GORE' for the company, 'TEX' for textile. A core textile for keeping you dry.
Conceptual Metaphor
TECHNOLOGY AS A SHIELD (e.g., Gore-Tex shields you from the elements).
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary function of Gore-Tex fabric?