shalloon: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Very Rare / ArchaicHistorical / Technical (Textiles)
Quick answer
What does “shalloon” mean?
A lightweight twilled woolen fabric.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A lightweight twilled woolen fabric.
A smooth, lightweight, slightly glossy fabric, traditionally of wool or worsted, used historically for linings, especially of coats and uniforms.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant modern difference; the term is equally obsolete in both varieties. Historically, it may have been more common in British textile trade catalogs.
Connotations
Historical craftsmanship, military uniforms, traditional tailoring.
Frequency
Extremely rare in contemporary use. Might appear in historical novels, costume history texts, or antique textile descriptions.
Grammar
How to Use “shalloon” in a Sentence
[made] of shalloon[lined] with shalloonshalloon [for lining]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “shalloon” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The shalloon lining was surprisingly durable.
- A shalloon-weave pattern was visible.
American English
- The shalloon lining held up well.
- It had a shalloon-like texture.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Virtually unused. Might appear in historical business records of textile merchants.
Academic
Used in historical studies of textiles, costume history, and economic history.
Everyday
Never used in contemporary everyday conversation.
Technical
Obsolete technical term in tailoring and textile manufacturing.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “shalloon”
- Spelling: 'shaloon', 'shallonn'. Misuse: Using it to describe any fabric, not specifically a lightweight twilled lining fabric.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. The specific term is obsolete. Modern tailors would simply refer to 'lining fabric' or specify a material like 'silk taffeta' or 'acetate.'
It is derived from the French place name 'Châlons-sur-Marne,' a town in France known for its textile production in the 17th century.
Historically, it was primarily wool or worsted. Modern fabrics with a similar lightweight, twilled structure might be made from polyester or cotton, but they would not be called 'shalloon.'
For most learners, it is not necessary. It is only relevant for advanced students specializing in historical texts, costume design, or textile history.
A lightweight twilled woolen fabric.
Shalloon is usually historical / technical (textiles) in register.
Shalloon: in British English it is pronounced /ʃəˈluːn/, and in American English it is pronounced /ʃəˈluːn/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a SHALLOW LOON (bird) wearing a lightweight, shiny coat LINING. 'Shalloon' is a light fabric for LINING.
Conceptual Metaphor
FABRIC IS A LAYER (of history, of clothing).
Practice
Quiz
What is 'shalloon' primarily known as?