Games

Word of the Day

Video

Blog: Words at Play

My Faves

Dictionary

fabric

noun fab·ric \ˈfa-brik\

: woven or knitted material

: the basic structure of something

Full Definition of FABRIC

a : structure, building

b : underlying structure : framework <the fabric of society>

: an act of constructing : erection; specifically : the construction and maintenance of a church building

a : structural plan or style of construction

b : texture, quality —used chiefly of textiles

c : the arrangement of physical components (as of soil) in relation to each other

a : cloth 1a

b : a material that resembles cloth

: the appearance or pattern produced by the shapes and arrangement of the crystal grains in a rock

See fabric defined for English-language learners

See fabric defined for kids

Origin of FABRIC

Middle French fabrique, from Latin fabrica workshop, structure

First Known Use: 15th century

Related to FABRIC

Synonyms: cloth, textile

Other Textiles Terms

batt, bias, brocade, duck, flock, lawn, toile

FABRIC Defined for Kids

fabric

noun fab·ric \ˈfa-brik\

Definition of FABRIC for Kids

: cloth 1

: the basic structure <the fabric of society>

Learn More About FABRIC

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for "fabric"

Spanish Central: Spanish translation of "fabric"

Nglish: Translation of "fabric" for Spanish speakers

Britannica English: Translation of "fabric" for Arabic speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about "fabric"

Browse

Next Word in the Dictionary: fabricantPrevious Word in the Dictionary: FabraeaAll Words Near: fabric

Seen & Heard

What made you want to look up fabric? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).

View Seen & Heard Highlights from Around the Site

Test Your Vocabulary!

10 Charming Words for Nasty People

Put-downs with flair

Learn More

When "Literally" isn't, well, literal

How to use a word that (literally) drives some people nuts.

Watch Now

Know what this is?

Test your vocab with our fun, fast game

Go Play

Fear of cats?

Ailurophobia, and 9 other unusual fears

Learn More