serge: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Technical/Formal
Quick answer
What does “serge” mean?
A durable, twilled woollen or worsted fabric with a distinct diagonal rib on both sides.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A durable, twilled woollen or worsted fabric with a distinct diagonal rib on both sides.
A strong fabric, historically of wool but now also made from other fibres, traditionally used for tailored suits, military uniforms, and workwear due to its durability.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning. UK English may retain slightly stronger historical association with military and school uniforms.
Connotations
Both regions associate it with durability, classic tailoring (e.g., a serge suit), and traditional uniforms. Can sometimes connote a somewhat old-fashioned or utilitarian feel.
Frequency
Low frequency in everyday speech in both regions. More common in historical, textile, and tailoring contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “serge” in a Sentence
Noun: The [adjective] serge was durable.Of-construction: A suit of fine serge.Made-of construction: The uniform was made of heavy serge.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “serge” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The tailor would serge the seams to prevent unravelling. (archaic)
American English
- She used an overlocker to serge the raw edges of the denim. (specialist sewing)
adjective
British English
- He wore a classic serge blazer.
American English
- The serge material was ideal for the cold weather uniform.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
In textile manufacturing or bespoke tailoring: 'We source premium Italian serge for our autumn collection.'
Academic
In historical or material culture studies: 'The standard-issue uniform was composed of a coarse blue serge.'
Everyday
Rare. Might appear in descriptions of vintage clothing: 'My grandfather's old serge suit is still in the attic.'
Technical
In weaving and fabric specification: 'The 2x2 twill weave gives serge its characteristic diagonal rib.'
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “serge”
- Misspelling as 'surge'.
- Using it as a general term for any suit material.
- Pronouncing it as /sɜːrɡ/ (with a hard 'g').
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is a low-frequency, specialised term mostly used in historical, tailoring, and textile contexts.
Yes, but it is highly archaic or very specialist. It refers to an overcasting stitch to finish fabric edges, a process now done by a serger/overlocker machine.
Both are twill weaves. Gabardine is typically a tighter, finer, and smoother twill, often lighter in weight, while serge is often heavier and has a more pronounced diagonal rib.
Its durability, resistance to wear, and ability to hold a sharp press made it ideal for military, police, and school uniforms throughout the 19th and early-to-mid 20th centuries.
A durable, twilled woollen or worsted fabric with a distinct diagonal rib on both sides.
Serge is usually technical/formal in register.
Serge: in British English it is pronounced /sɜːdʒ/, and in American English it is pronounced /sɝːdʒ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “True blue (historically associated with dye used on woollen serge, symbolising steadfastness).”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a SERGEant in a uniform made of sturdy SERGE fabric.
Conceptual Metaphor
DURABILITY IS ROBUST MATERIAL (e.g., 'He has a character of moral serge').
Practice
Quiz
What is the defining characteristic of serge fabric?