chenille

noun

che·​nille shə-ˈnēl 

1

: a wool, cotton, silk, or rayon yarn with protruding pile

also : a pile-face fabric with a filling of this yarn

2

: an imitation of chenille yarn or fabric

Examples of chenille in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Choose from linen, basket weave, chenille, or this striking jacquard print to level up the elegant, vintage look of your home decor. —Julia Harrison, Architectural Digest, 1 Apr. 2025

Freedom Denim addressed the demand for soft fabrics with several new concepts including a robust line of chenille denim. —Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 28 May 2025

The chenille cover on this beanbag chair proved to be very durable. —Kathleen Felton, Better Homes & Gardens, 9 May 2025

Coming in both sage and hazelnut chenille, this is the perfect piece for creating a cozy reading nook or laid-back living room environment. —Julia Harrison, Architectural Digest, 15 May 2025

Word History

Etymology

French, literally, caterpillar, from Latin canicula, diminutive of canis dog; from its hairy appearance — more at hound

First Known Use

circa 1739, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for chenille

• fennel
• henle
• kennel
• antennal
• departmental

Kids Definition

chenille

noun

che·​nille shə-ˈnē(ə)l 

: a thick fuzzy fabric