lint

1 of 2

noun

ˈlint 

1

a

: a soft fleecy material made from linen usually by scraping

b

: fuzz consisting especially of fine ravelings and short fibers of yarn and fabric

2

: a fibrous coat of thick convoluted hairs borne by cotton seeds that yields the cotton staple

lintless

ˈlint-ləs 

adjective

linty

ˈlin-tē 

adjective

linty

2 of 2

adjective

ˈlintē 

-er/-est

: like lint : full of or covered with lint

Synonyms of lint

Noun

• fur
• pile

Examples of lint in a Sentence

Noun

I always have lint in my pocket.

The clothes dryer was clogged with lint.

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

The Miraclean waffle-weave microfiber towels are built for heavy-duty cleaning, tackling everything from kitchen counters to bathroom mirrors without leaving behind lint or streaks. — Sarah Scott, Southern Living, 28 July 2026

Before touching any shaver, vacuum the surface with a soft brush attachment on low suction, then try a lint brush, rubber cleaning gloves or a lint roller with minimal pressure. — Ryan Brennan, Miami Herald, 22 July 2026

Although certain high-quality microfiber cloths can be used on glass, Holevich recommends opting for a soft, lint-free cotton cloth for the safest results. — Kate Van Pelt, The Spruce, 15 July 2026

Microfiber is also often the better choice for effectively trapping dust and polishing surfaces without the risk of leaving behind lint or scratches. — Jamie Cuccinelli, Martha Stewart, 6 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

Noun and Adjective

Middle English

First Known Use

Noun

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing lint

• lint roller

Rhymes for lint

• clint
• dint
• glint
• hint
• mint
• print
• quint
• quinte
• splint
• sprint
• squint
• stint

Kids Definition

lint

noun

ˈlint 

1

: loose fibers or bits of thread

2

: cotton entry 1 sense 1a

lintless

-ləs 

adjective

linty

-ē 

adjective

Medical Definition

lint

noun

ˈlint 

1

: a soft fleecy material used for poultices and dressings for wounds and made from linen usually by scraping

2

British : sterile cotton cloth used for dressings