Cordovan
/ˈkɔːr.də.vən/noun
A fine, durable leather originally made in Córdoba, Spain, and by extension a deep reddish-brown color.
Did you know?The word comes from Córdoba, and the leather became so prized that its place-name origin turned into a fashion term for a color and material associated with elite craftsmanship.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Roman period
Latin
Corduba
“The Roman name for Córdoba, the city in southern Spain.”
Early Medieval
Spanish
cordobán
“Fine leather from Córdoba, especially goatskin or sheepskin leather.”
Middle Ages
Old French
cordouan
“Leather or goods made in the Córdoba style; later associated with fine leather.”
14th-16th Century
English
cordewan / cordovan
“Leather from Córdoba, especially high-quality tanned leather.”
Modern English
English
cordovan
“A type of fine leather and a deep reddish-brown color named after it.”