Terry
/ˈtɛri/noun
A soft, absorbent pile fabric, especially one used for towels and robes.
Did you know?The word is tied to textile naming in English, likely influenced by French usage, and the fabric’s looped surface is what gives terry cloth its famous absorbency.
Etymological Timeline
19th Century
English
terry
“A looped pile fabric used for towels and similar cloths.”
French influence
French
terrye / terry
“A textile term used in English commercial naming, likely referring to looped pile cloth.”
Modern textile trade
English
terry cloth
“A fabric with uncut loops on one or both sides, prized for absorbency.”
Modern English
English
Terry
“Also used as a personal name, often a short form of Terence or Theresa.”