melton: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Technical/Specialised
Quick answer
What does “melton” mean?
A dense, tightly woven woolen fabric with a felted, napped surface.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A dense, tightly woven woolen fabric with a felted, napped surface.
Specifically refers to a heavy cloth, traditionally used for overcoats, jackets, and uniforms due to its weather-resistant and durable qualities.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Identical in core meaning, but the term is more likely to be recognised in British English due to its geographical origin. In the US, it is primarily known in tailoring, military, and historical contexts.
Connotations
Connotes traditional, sturdy, and classic British tailoring (e.g., hunting pinks, military greatcoats). In both varieties, it suggests durability over fashion.
Frequency
Low frequency in general language. Higher frequency in British contexts related to history, tailoring, and equestrian wear.
Grammar
How to Use “melton” in a Sentence
[made of/from] melton[in] meltonmelton [noun] (as a modifier)a [jacket/coat] of meltonVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “melton” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The hunt members wore distinctive scarlet melton coats.
- It's a classic melton riding jacket, very hard-wearing.
American English
- The uniform required a dark blue melton overcoat.
- He preferred the weight of a melton cloth for winter blazers.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used in textile manufacturing, import/export, and bespoke tailoring descriptions.
Academic
Appears in historical, textile, and fashion studies texts discussing 19th/20th century clothing and military uniforms.
Everyday
Very rare. Might be encountered in high-end clothing descriptions or historical documentaries.
Technical
Standard term in tailoring, costume design, and textile engineering for a specific type of heavily milled wool fabric.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “melton”
- Using 'melton' as a colour (it is a fabric type).
- Pronouncing it as /ˈmɛltɒn/ (with a strong 'o').
- Capitalising it in non-initial uses (it is no longer a proper noun in common usage).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is not a modern brand. It is a type of fabric named after Melton Mowbray, England, where it was originally produced.
No. It refers specifically to the weave, weight, and finish of the wool fabric, not its colour. Melton cloth can be dyed any colour, most traditionally scarlet or navy.
Its main characteristic is a smooth, felt-like, napped surface created by a heavy milling process, which makes the fabric windproof and extremely durable.
Yes, though less commonly than historically. It is still used for high-quality overcoats, military dress uniforms, historical costumes, and equestrian wear where tradition and durability are key.
A dense, tightly woven woolen fabric with a felted, napped surface.
Melton is usually technical/specialised in register.
Melton: in British English it is pronounced /ˈmɛlt(ə)n/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈmɛltən/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a MELTED wool blanket – 'Melton' fabric has a surface that looks and feels slightly fused or felted, like melted fibres pressed together.
Conceptual Metaphor
DURABILITY IS WEIGHT / TRADITION IS MATERIAL (e.g., 'the melton of tradition' implies something heavy with history).
Practice
Quiz
In which context are you MOST likely to encounter the word 'melton'?