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Definition of burlap

burlap

/ˈbɜːr.læp/
bur · lap
Plural:burlaps
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burlap Lexical Profile

burlap Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

North American A coarse, heavy, plain-woven fabric typically made from jute or hemp fibers, widely used for making sacks, bags, and upholstery.

Example

"The farmers packed the freshly harvested potatoes into sturdy bags made of burlap."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for burlap

Word Nuance & Usage

The term "burlap" is primarily used in North America; in British, Australian, and New Zealand English, the same fabric is typically called "hessian" or "sacking."

• Nearby Words

burka
burkina faso
burkini
burlap
burlesque
burliness
burly

Word Origin & Etymology

First recorded in the late 17th century, probably derived from Middle Dutch "boerenlap" (literally "peasant's cloth"), or from Middle English "borel" (coarse cloth) combined with "lap" (a piece of cloth).

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Burlap. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/burlap
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