Sheets: meaning, definitions and examples

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sheets

 

[ ʃiːt ]

Noun / Verb
Context #1 | Noun

bedding

Pieces of cloth used for covering or protecting furniture, mattresses, or other items.

Synonyms

bedclothes, bedding, linens.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
sheets

Use when specifically referring to the flat pieces of cloth that cover a bed. Common in everyday conversations about bed-making or laundry.

  • I need to change the sheets on my bed.
  • The sheets feel so soft and comfortable.
bedding

A general term that includes sheets, blankets, pillows, etc. Often used in contexts involving buying or discussing a full set of bed accessories.

  • They bought new bedding for their bedroom.
  • The hotel's bedding was very luxurious.
linens

A more formal or traditional term generally referring to high-quality fabric items used in the home, including sheets. Often used in hospitality or household management contexts.

  • The linens in the guest room need to be ironed.
  • We store extra linens in the closet.
bedclothes

An older term that includes all items of bedding, including sheets, blankets, and more. Less commonly used in modern conversations.

  • She folded all the bedclothes neatly.
  • The guest room bedclothes need to be washed.

Examples of usage

  • They put clean sheets on the bed.
  • The hotel provided fresh sheets for the guests.
  • Sheets are commonly used to cover a mattress.
Context #2 | Noun

paper

A large, thin, flat piece of any material, especially paper.

Synonyms

leaflet, page, piece.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
sheets

Best used when referring to multiple pieces of paper, often blank or part of a larger collection. Can also refer to bed linen.

  • I need some sheets of paper to take notes.
  • She changed the sheets on her bed.
piece

Used to refer to a part of a whole object or material. It has a broad usage and is very versatile.

  • Can I have a piece of paper?
  • He tore a piece of the cloth.
page

Appropriate when referring to a single side or a single sheet in a book, magazine, or similar printed material.

  • Turn to page 45 in your textbook.
  • She wrote her name on the first page of the notebook.
leaflet

Typically used to describe a folded piece of paper or a small booklet containing information, often distributed for advertising or informational purposes.

  • I picked up a leaflet about the local attractions.
  • The doctor gave me a leaflet explaining the medication.

Examples of usage

  • He handed her a sheet of paper.
  • The student wrote notes on a sheet of notebook paper.
  • Please fill out this information sheet.
Context #3 | Verb

bedding

To cover with a sheet or sheets.

Synonyms

blanket, cover, overlay.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
sheets

Typically refers to flat pieces of fabric used on beds.

  • I need to wash the sheets today
  • The hotel provides fresh sheets every day for its guests
cover

A general term that can refer to anything used to cover or protect something. In bedding, it often means a duvet cover or another type of protective layer.

  • Please put a cover on the table before we start eating
  • She slipped a cover over her pillow to keep it clean
blanket

Refers to a large piece of thick cloth used for warmth on a bed or on the sofa. It often denotes something heavier and warmer than sheets.

  • She wrapped herself in a blanket to stay warm
  • The kids made a fort using a blanket
overlay

Describes an additional layer that is placed on top of something, often to add decoration or protection. This term is used in more specific contexts, such as design, technology, and sometimes in home decor.

  • The graphic designer used an overlay to give the website a modern look
  • She placed an embroidered overlay on the tablecloth to add some elegance

Examples of usage

  • Sheets the bed with a fresh set of linens.
  • He sheeted the furniture to protect it during the move.

Translations

Translations of the word "sheets" in other languages:

🇵🇹 folhas

🇮🇳 शीट्स

🇩🇪 Blätter

🇮🇩 lembar

🇺🇦 аркуші

🇵🇱 arkusze

🇯🇵 シーツ

🇫🇷 feuilles

🇪🇸 hojas

🇹🇷 çarşaflar

🇰🇷 시트

🇸🇦 أوراق

🇨🇿 listy

🇸🇰 listy

🇨🇳 床单

🇸🇮 listi

🇮🇸 blöð

🇰🇿 парақтар

🇬🇪 ფურცლები

🇦🇿 vərəqlər

🇲🇽 hojas

Etymology

The word 'sheets' originated from the Old English word 'sceata', which meant a piece of cloth. Over time, it evolved to refer to a larger piece of material, especially paper or fabric. The use of sheets for bedding dates back to ancient times, with evidence of linen sheets being used in ancient Egypt. Today, sheets are an essential part of bedding sets and are commonly made from cotton, linen, or other materials.

See also: sheet, worksheet.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,414, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.