oxford

1 of 3

noun (1)

ox·​ford ˈäks-fərd 

1

: a low shoe laced or tied over the instep

2

: a soft durable cotton or synthetic fabric made in plain or basket weaves

called also oxford cloth

Oxford down

2 of 3

noun (2)

variants often Oxford Down

: any of a Down breed of large hornless sheep developed by crossing Cotswolds and Hampshires

called also Oxford

oxford gray

3 of 3

noun (3)

variants or less commonly oxford

plural -s

often capitalized O

: a dark gray that is darker than pelican or Dover gray and lighter than fashion gray

Examples of oxford in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

The English brand, owned by the Prada Group, showcased a series of shoes that splits the difference between oxfords and spectators. —Justin Fenner, Robb Report, 17 June 2026

Also known as oxfords, derby shoes, or lace-up loafers, the silhouette is defined by its sleek, foot-hugging shape, lace-up closure, and subtle block heel. —Amanda Le, InStyle, 12 June 2026

The set kept the house’s tweed language in view, but Stewart’s oxfords pulled it away from the polished sandal or pointed pump expected at a Cannes daytime call. —Maggie Clancy, Footwear News, 16 May 2026

Liu was wearing a black blazer, starched white culottes, and black oxfords. —Emilia Petrarca, New Yorker, 13 Apr. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Noun (1)

Oxford, England

Noun (2)

Oxfordshire, England

First Known Use

Noun (1)

1843, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Noun (2)

1859, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

oxford

noun

ox·​ford ˈäks-fərd 

1

: a low shoe laced over the middle of the foot

2

: oxford cloth

Geographical Definition

Oxford

geographical name

Ox·​ford ˈäks-fərd 

variants or Medieval Latin Oxonia

äk-ˈsō-nē-ə 

city on the Thames River in south central England that is the capital of the county of Oxfordshire and site of the University of Oxford population 160,000

Oxfordian

äks-ˈfȯr-dē-ən 

adjective or noun