linen

lin-en · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A textile made from the fibers of the flax plant, known for its strength and coolness.

  2. 2.

    Household items made from linen or similar cloth, such as sheets, tablecloths, and towels.

  3. 3.

    Articles of clothing or underwear, especially when made from linen.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    wash one's dirty linen in public — to discuss personal matters openly
  • •
    linen closet — a cupboard for storing sheets and towels
  • •
    table linen — cloths used for setting a table

Related words

See also: cloth, cotton, fabric
Synonyms: cloth, fabric, textile

Etymology

From Old English linen, adjective meaning "made of flax," from lin ("flax") + -en (material suffix). Related to Latin linum ("flax").