patent leather

noun

pat·​ent leather ˈpa-tᵊn(t)- How to pronounce patent leather (audio)
 British usually  ˈpā-
: a leather with a hard smooth glossy surface

Examples of patent leather in a Sentence

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.
Earle completed the look with pointed black slingback patent leather heels, and accessorized with a silver bracelet, dainty rings and earrings. Starr Bowenbank, PEOPLE, 8 Sep. 2025 The same method as cleaning linoleum works for buffing scratches or scuffs out of patent leather, soft white leather, sneaker midsoles, or vinyl. Mary Catherine McAnnally Scott, Southern Living, 5 Sep. 2025 Take, for instance, the Nike Air Force 1, which in May was reimagined by rapper Lil Yachty with a tri-color patent leather look, which created a chase for the 1982 silhouette that hasn’t been seen since the work of the late Virgil Abloh. Riley Jones, Footwear News, 3 Sep. 2025 For delicate items, like patent leather shoes or belts, wrap them in a clean pillowcase or soft cloth before bagging to avoid direct pressure from other frozen goods. Staff Author, Better Homes & Gardens, 20 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for patent leather

Word History

First Known Use

1816, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of patent leather was in 1816

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Cite this Entry

“Patent leather.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/patent%20leather. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

patent leather

noun
pat·​ent leather ˌpat-ᵊn(t)- How to pronounce patent leather (audio)
: a leather with a hard smooth glossy surface

More from Merriam-Webster on patent leather

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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