paisley

adjective

pais·​ley ˈpāz-lē How to pronounce paisley (audio)
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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
La Prairie evokes a dreamy meadow filled with geometric blooms and bows, while Le Firmament explores the heavens, the celestial Western stars, illustrated with beads and swirling paisley patterns. Sofia Celeste, Footwear News, 7 Apr. 2025 Gomez wore a spring-appropriate silky pink button-down dress featuring a subtle paisley pattern. Catherine Santino, Peoplemag, 17 May 2024 An essential in her everyday uniform, follow suit and pair yours from Madewell with a navy peacoat and paisley cotton bandana from Banana Republic. Laura Jackson, Vogue, 21 Mar. 2025 The boldest women are going for pieces with paisley prints, flowing dresses and blouses, and extra-long necklaces. Casandra Maggio, Glamour, 12 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for paisley

Word History

Etymology

Paisley, Scotland

First Known Use

1790, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of paisley was in 1790

Browse Nearby Words

See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Paisley.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/paisley. Accessed 6 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

paisley

adjective
pais·​ley ˈpāz-lē How to pronounce paisley (audio)
often capitalized
: made with colorful curved figures
a paisley shawl
paisley noun

Geographical Definition

Paisley

geographical name

Pais·​ley ˈpāz-lē How to pronounce Paisley (audio)
burgh in southwestern Scotland west of Glasgow population 77,000

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