plaid

noun

1
: a rectangular length of tartan worn over the left shoulder as part of the Scottish national costume
2
a
: a twilled woolen fabric with a tartan pattern
b
: a fabric with a pattern of tartan or an imitation of tartan
3
b
: a pattern of unevenly spaced repeated stripes crossing at right angles
plaid adjective
plaided adjective

Examples of plaid in a Sentence

She likes to wear plaids.
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.
This plaid Faux Mohair Throw gives you the perfect opportunity to incorporate multiple fall colors into your space at once. Sophia Beams, Better Homes & Gardens, 27 Sep. 2025 Lomon Long-Sleeve Button-Down Shirt For a more traditional take on the plaid shirt, try this brown-and-white gingham button-down with a straight point collar and barrel cuffs. Jamie Allison Sanders, PEOPLE, 27 Sep. 2025 For a less literal take on gingham, consider the Joon Loloi Ailsa pillow that’s a very contemporary twist on the beloved plaid print. Yelena Moroz Alpert, Architectural Digest, 26 Sep. 2025 Gaines’ fall collection is all about warm earthy tones, plaid patterns, and unique textures that create a cohesive, retro look. Shea Simmons, Southern Living, 25 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for plaid

Word History

Etymology

Scottish Gaelic plaide

First Known Use

1512, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of plaid was in 1512

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Plaid.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/plaid. Accessed 30 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

plaid

noun
1
: a rectangular length of tartan worn over the shoulder as part of the Scottish national costume
2
: a fabric with a tartan pattern
3
b
: a pattern of unevenly spaced repeated stripes crossing at right angles
plaid adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on plaid

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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