suede

1 of 2

noun

variants or less commonly suède
1
: leather with a napped surface
2
: a fabric finished with a nap to simulate suede

suede

2 of 2

verb

sueded; sueding

transitive verb

: to give a suede finish or nap to (a fabric or leather)

intransitive verb

: to give cloth or leather a suede finish

Examples of suede 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
The shoes are crafted with premium, weather-resistant suede, a rubber outsole with grip and ample cushioning. Jaden Thompson, Footwear News, 10 Oct. 2025 This Universal Thread jacket blends the bomber style with suede materials for a cozy look that works for casual wear to more professional office outfits and even an evening out. Caley Sturgill, Southern Living, 9 Oct. 2025 The suede upper features a breathable, perforated design, while the interior boasts the brand’s signature built-in arch support insole, which helps alleviate heel pain and keeps you comfortable throughout the day. Melony Forcier, Travel + Leisure, 8 Oct. 2025 The boots feature soft suede on the outside and fuzzy fur on the inside to keep your feet warm and cozy. Katrina Cossey, Parents, 8 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for suede

Word History

Etymology

Noun

French gants de Suède Swedish gloves

First Known Use

Noun

1883, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Verb

1921, in the meaning defined at transitive sense

Time Traveler
The first known use of suede was in 1883

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Suede.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/suede. Accessed 17 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

suede

noun
variants also suède
ˈswād
1
: leather rubbed on one side to produce a velvety surface
2
: a cloth fabric that looks and feels like suede
Etymology

Noun

from French gants de Suède "Swedish gloves," from Suède "Sweden"

More from Merriam-Webster on suede

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!