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Draper Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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draper

[หˆdreษชpษ™r ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

textiles industry

A draper is a person who sells cloth and fabric, typically for tailoring or upholstery. This term can also refer to someone involved in the textile trade who provides various materials for making garments. The draper may also offer various services, such as measuring and cutting fabric for customers. In historical contexts, drapers were prominent figures in their communities, often running local shops that served as hubs for fabric sourcing.

Synonyms

cloth merchant, fabric seller, textile retailer.

Examples of usage

  • The draper provided beautiful silk for the evening gown.
  • She went to the draper to select the finest wool for her custom suit.
  • The local draper has been in business for over fifty years.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'draper'

The word 'draper' originates from the Middle English 'draper', which referred to a merchant dealing in cloth. This term derives from the Old French 'drapier', which means 'dealer in cloth', and is based on 'drap', meaning 'cloth' or 'fabric'. The roots can be traced even further back to the Proto-Germanic word '*drฤpa', meaning 'to drape' or 'to cover'. Historically, drapers played a significant role in the development of trade in textiles, especially in medieval England, where they were often associated with the merchant guilds that regulated the fabrics' quality and prices. Over centuries, the role of a draper has evolved alongside the textile industry, adapting to changes in fashion and consumer demand.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,390, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.