quilt

1 of 2

noun

1
a
: a bed coverlet of two layers of cloth filled with padding (such as down or batting) held in place by ties or stitched designs
2
: something that is quilted or resembles a quilt
a quilt of houses and parks

quilt

2 of 2

verb

quilted; quilting; quilts

transitive verb

1
a
: to fill, pad, or line like a quilt
b(1)
: to stitch, sew, or cover with lines or patterns like those used in quilts
(2)
: to stitch (designs) through layers of cloth
c
: to fasten between two pieces of material
2
: to stitch or sew in layers with padding in between

intransitive verb

1
: to make quilts
2
: to do quilted work
quilter noun

Examples of quilt 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.
Noun
Less formal decorating styles, as well as lighter-weight and less valuable tapestries, can take a more casual approach; mounting ideas include attaching curtain rings, draping over rods, and hanging from a dowel or banner hanger or quilt hangers. Kristina McGuirk, Better Homes & Gardens, 29 June 2025 This sale includes quilts, sheet sets, and down-alternative comforters that are ideal for all seasons. Rachel Trujillo, People.com, 27 June 2025
Verb
Weddings, quilting parties, dances, and all kinds of other occasions found notes of the banjo permeating the air. Essence, 29 May 2025 There’s a long history of women quilting as a form of activism. Trevor Hughes, USA Today, 7 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for quilt

Word History

Etymology

Noun

Middle English quilte mattress, quilt, from Anglo-French coilte, from Latin culcita mattress

First Known Use

Noun

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

Verb

1555, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of quilt was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Quilt.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/quilt. Accessed 4 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

quilt

1 of 2 noun
: a bed cover made of two layers of cloth with a filling of wool, cotton, or down held together by patterned stitching

quilt

2 of 2 verb
: to construct (as by padding, covering with patterns, or sewing layers together) like a quilt
quilter noun

More from Merriam-Webster on quilt

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