paisley

adjective

pais·​ley ˈpāz-lē 

often capitalized

1

: made typically of soft wool and woven or printed with colorful curved abstract figures

2

: marked by designs, patterns, or figures typically used in paisley fabrics

a paisley print

paisley noun

Examples of paisley in a Sentence

The wallpaper is a paisley print.

Recent Examples on the Web

In 2020, for example, Etro brought its signature colorful touch to Milan’s iconic Four Seasons Hotel, customizing the hotel’s sophisticated garden by setting up the world’s first EtroGarden, decorated with sofas, armchairs and cushions covered with the brand’s vibrant paisley fabrics. —Sofia Celeste, Footwear News, 12 Sep. 2025

Chopra Jonas stunned in a dark paisley-print jacket and matching sheer skirt, while Jonas opted for a chocolate brown suit. —Catherine Santino, PEOPLE, 11 Sep. 2025

On the orange carpet over the weekend, Skylar Diggins-Smith of the Seattle Storm arrived in an elevated paisley bomber jacket with matching see-through shorts by designer Cucculelli Shaheen. —Robyn Mowatt, Essence, 21 July 2025

These wide-leg pants have a similar paisley design. —Nicol Natale, People.com, 16 July 2025

Word History

Etymology

Paisley, Scotland

First Known Use

1790, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

paisley

adjective

pais·​ley ˈpāz-lē 

often capitalized

: made with colorful curved figures

a paisley shawl

paisley noun

Geographical Definition

Paisley

geographical name

Pais·​ley ˈpāz-lē 

burgh in southwestern Scotland west of Glasgow population 77,000