flannel

noun

flan·​nel ˈfla-nᵊl 

1

a

: a soft twilled wool or worsted fabric with a loose texture and a slightly napped surface

b

: a napped cotton fabric of soft yarns simulating the texture of wool flannel

c

: a stout cotton fabric usually napped on one side

2

flannels plural

a

: flannel underwear

b

: outer garments of flannel

especially : men's trousers

3

British : washcloth

4

British : flattering or evasive talk

also : nonsense, rubbish

flannel adjective

flannelly

ˈfla-nᵊl-ē 

adjective

Synonyms of flannel

• butter
• taffy
• flattery
• soft soap

Examples of flannel in a Sentence

shirts made of bright-colored flannel

He wore a dark blazer and gray flannels.

Recent Examples on the Web

The styling trick works even with an outfit that leans as grunge as this, with ballooning black cargo pants, a muted flannel, and a faded black tee. —Alyssa Rotunno, InStyle, 30 Dec. 2025

The oversized style is made with brushed flannel that feels oh-so-soft against skin. —Sian Babish, PEOPLE, 29 Dec. 2025

Standout bedding deals include a timeless linen quilt with subtle floral stitching (49% off), a plush faux fur throw that’s perfect for draping over an armchair (47% off), and a flannel sheet set for staying cozy on cold nights (48% off). —Mariana Best, Better Homes & Gardens, 28 Dec. 2025

Even Kylie Jenner has embraced the trend with sheer plaid nails that channel a comfy oversized flannel. —Catharine Malzahn, Glamour, 27 Dec. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English flaunneol woolen cloth or garment

First Known Use

1503, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing flannel

• Canton flannel
• red flannel hash

Rhymes for flannel

• annal
• annul
• cannel
• channel
• panel
• pannel
• multichannel
• perianal

Kids Definition

flannel

noun

flan·​nel ˈflan-ᵊl 

1

: a soft cloth made of wool or cotton

2

plural : flannel underwear or trousers