oxford

1 of 4

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

Oxfordian

2 of 4

adjective or noun

Ox·​ford·​ian (ˈ)äks-¦fȯr-dē-ən 

: oxonian

Oxfordian

3 of 4

adjective

Ox·​ford·​ian (ˈ)äks-¦fȯr-dē-ən 

: of or relating to the 17th Earl of Oxford or to the doctrine that he was the author of the dramatic works usually attributed to Shakespeare

Oxfordian

4 of 4

noun (2)

Ox·​ford·​ian (ˈ)äks-¦fȯr-dē-ən 

plural -s

: a supporter of the doctrine that the 17th Earl of Oxford was the author of the dramatic works usually attributed to Shakespeare

Examples of oxford in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

This midi can be paired with white flat oxfords and a leather tote for the office, or heels and a clutch for a dinner out. — Andrea Zendejas, Vogue, 2 July 2026

The potentially odorous oxfords and bawdy boots come on the heels of another viral foot sensation. — Rachel Tashjian, CNN Money, 26 June 2026

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

Word History

Etymology

Noun (1)

Oxford, England

Adjective or noun

Oxford, England + English -ian

Adjective

Edward de Vere, Earl of Oxford †1604 English courtier and lyric poet + English -ian

First Known Use

Noun (1)

1843, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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