suede

1 of 2

noun

ˈswād 

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

Noun

Along with the dress, Queen Mathilde fashioned a pair of suede beige pumps courtesy of Dior and wore a hat by Philip Treacy — who has also fashioned hats for the likes of Britain’s Queen Camilla and more. —Julia Teti, WWD, 22 July 2024

The online retailer has discounted dozens of popular options, from statement-making metallic sandals to neutral suede clogs, so your new favorite shoe might be just a click away. —Melony Forcier, Travel + Leisure, 20 July 2024

Verb

At the Euro finals on Sunday, Norris sported a dapper button-up layered underneath a Dior Men suede overshirt. —Irene Kim, Vogue, 18 July 2024

From smooth leather to suede, glossy patent to sparkles, the brand has mastered the art of the pump. —Karina Hoshikawa, refinery29.com, 20 Feb. 2024

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

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"