terry

noun

ter·​ry ˈter-ē How to pronounce terry (audio)
ˈte-rē
plural terries
1
: the loop forming the pile in uncut pile fabrics
2
: an absorbent fabric with such loops

called also terry cloth

Examples of terry 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.
Wild Fable Polo Collar Pullover Sweatshirt This Wild Fable sweatshirt can be worn casually or dressed up thanks to its polo collar and French terry material. Rachel Trujillo, PEOPLE, 29 Oct. 2025 Currently $49, this classic hoodie is ideal for cozying up in a chilly plane cabin or running downstairs for hotel breakfast, thanks to its breathable French terry material. Sophie Dodd, Travel + Leisure, 26 Oct. 2025 The long-staple organic cotton makes its terry cloth incredibly soft without looking lumpy, thanks to the cotton lining in the interior’s top back, which is made from the same fabric as Prossioni’s percale sheets. Audrey Lee, Architectural Digest, 22 Oct. 2025 Designed to be absorbent—and possibly even replace your bath towels—this post-shower category highlights cotton robes in a terry cloth finish; though Matouk’s soft waffle-weave is a notable exception. Elly Leavitt, Vogue, 9 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for terry

Word History

Etymology

perhaps modification of French tiré, past participle of tirer to draw

First Known Use

1784, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of terry was in 1784

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Terry.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/terry. Accessed 5 Nov. 2025.

Kids Definition

terry

noun
ter·​ry ˈter-ē How to pronounce terry (audio)
plural terries
: an absorbent fabric with an even surface of uncut loops

called also terry cloth

Biographical Definition

Terry

biographical name

Ter·​ry ˈter-ē How to pronounce Terry (audio)
(Alice) Ellen 1847–1928 English actress

More from Merriam-Webster on terry

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!