WordGarden.iotweed
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /twˈiːd/
US
- /ˈtwid/
Meanings
Noun
a rough woolen fabric, often with a soft flecked or textured look
a jacket, suit, or similar clothing made from tweed
Adjective
made of tweed or resembling tweed fabric
Beyond the definition
This fabric is not just cloth; it carries a whole mood. Think of country houses, Sherlock Holmes on a foggy moor, or a professor in a jacket with leather elbow patches. It is a rough, usually patterned wool fabric from Scotland and Ireland, known for being warm and hard-wearing. You will often see it in jackets, coats, vests, and traditional caps.
The name likely comes from the Scots word "tweel," meaning twill. A famous story says that a London merchant misread the word and linked the fabric to the River Tweed, and the name stayed. Once tied closely to outdoor country life, hunting, and fishing, it later became a classic part of fashion. It is practical, warm, and full of rustic character, the kind of fabric that seems to carry stories of windy hills and old traditions.
Tweed is a strong, textured woolen fabric from Scotland and Ireland, traditionally woven in a twill pattern. Its character comes not only from the wool itself but also from the way it is woven, often using mixed colors of yarn to create a natural, earthy look. In the past, it was a practical choice for outdoor workers who needed durable, weather-resistant clothing in cold and damp conditions. Farmers, fishermen, and gamekeepers all relied on its dense weave to help keep them warm.
Over time, tweed moved beyond purely functional workwear and became synonymous with British country estates and the sporting life. This shift cemented the classic "country gentleman" look: tailored tweed jackets paired with corduroy trousers and sturdy boots. It is a fabric that evokes vivid images of rolling highlands, heather-covered moors, and the comforting scent of peat fires.
However, tweed isn't stuck in the past. Modern designers have embraced its versatility, incorporating it into contemporary fashion pieces—from chic coats and miniskirts to stylish accessories. You can find tweed in a wide range of iconic patterns, including herringbone, houndstooth, and Prince of Wales check.
Beyond clothing, "tweed" can also be used figuratively to describe something that is old-fashioned, scholarly, or slightly eccentric. For example, you might say someone has "tweed sensibilities" if they appreciate classic literature, vintage aesthetics, and a slower pace of life. At its heart, tweed remains a timeless fabric—a testament to quality craftsmanship and enduring style.
Examples
- 1
Clothing
He arrived in a tweed jacket and a flat cap.
- 2
Cold weather
Tweed is warm and durable, so people often wear it in colder weather.
- 3
Tailoring
The tailor showed her several tweeds before she chose one for the suit.
See also
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- tweednoun
Forms
- tweedspluralnoun