flannel
flannel Lexical Profile
flannel Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A soft woven fabric, typically made of wool or cotton, characterized by its slightly milled and raised surface.
"She bought two yards of soft cotton flannel to make pajamas for the winter."
North American A piece of clothing, especially a button-down shirt, made of flannel fabric and frequently sporting a plaid pattern.
"He wore a faded red flannel and sturdy work boots to chop firewood behind the cabin."
British A small piece of cloth used for washing the face and body.
"He wet the flannel with warm water and gently wiped the dirt from his daughter's face."
• verb
British To speak evasively or use flattering language to deceive someone.
"The politician tried to flannel his way out of the scandal by giving vague, complimentary speeches to the press."
British To wash someone or something with a washcloth.
"The nurse gently flanneled the patient's feverish forehead with cool water."
Word Nuance & Usage
In North America, 'flannel' commonly refers to a plaid shirt made of the fabric, while in British English, it frequently refers to a washcloth used for bathing.
• Rhymes for flannel
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Derived from Middle English 'flannen', likely originating from the Welsh word 'gwlanen', meaning 'woolen article', which itself stems from 'gwlân' meaning 'wool'.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.