Oilcloth: meaning, definitions and examples

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oilcloth

 

[ ˈɔɪlˌklɔːθ ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

material covering

Oilcloth is a durable fabric that has been treated with oil or synthetic substances to make it waterproof and easy to clean. It is commonly used for tablecloths, outdoor furniture covers, and craft projects due to its resilience and decorative patterns.

Synonyms

oilskin, vinyl cloth, waterproof fabric

Examples of usage

  • The picnic table was covered with bright oilcloth.
  • She chose an oilcloth table runner for the outdoor party.
  • He used oilcloth to make a waterproof bag.

Translations

Translations of the word "oilcloth" in other languages:

🇵🇹 tecido encerado

🇮🇳 तेल कपड़ा

🇩🇪 Ölzeug

🇮🇩 kain minyak

🇺🇦 масляна тканина

🇵🇱 olejoodporna tkanina

🇯🇵 オイルクロス

🇫🇷 toile cirée

🇪🇸 tela encerada

🇹🇷 yağlı bez

🇰🇷 오일 클로스

🇸🇦 قماش مدهون بالزيت

🇨🇿 olejové plátno

🇸🇰 olejová tkanina

🇨🇳 油布

🇸🇮 oljnata tkanina

🇮🇸 olíufatna

🇰🇿 майлы мата

🇬🇪 თხევადი ტილო

🇦🇿 yağlı parça

🇲🇽 tela encerada

Word origin

The term 'oilcloth' dates back to the late 18th century and is derived from the combination of 'oil' and 'cloth.' The technique of treating fabric with oil to create a waterproof surface became popular during this time, particularly in Europe. The process involved saturating cotton or linen with linseed oil, then allowing it to dry, creating a flexible and durable material. Oilcloth became widely used for various applications, including table coverings, tents, and other outdoor gear. By the 19th century, advancements in manufacturing led to the creation of more colorful and patterned oilcloths, making them fashionable as well as functional. Today, oilcloth is often made from PVC or other synthetic materials, combining modern manufacturing techniques with the traditional properties that made the original oilcloth popular.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,965 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.