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

Using faux chenille, a fabric manipulation technique that creates layered textures, Threadapeutic produces richly tactile works that can take three months to complete, such as Gather and Shore wall hangings made from lace, brocade and tulle scraps. —Y-Jean Mun-Delsalle, Forbes.com, 7 Sep. 2025

The hero product is a heavyweight player’s bomber jacket, a nod to the brand’s heritage, with chenille Yankees lettering on the back. —Lisa Lockwood, Footwear News, 28 Aug. 2025

Threshold Chenille Knit Throw Blanket Threshold’s popular chenille throw is available in gold or gray. —Staff Author, People.com, 26 Aug. 2025

Freedom Denim addresses the demand for soft fabrics with several new concepts including a robust line of chenille denim. —Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 21 Aug. 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