terry

noun

ter·​ry ˈter-ē 

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

The slippers are also cushy thanks to their terry cotton insoles for padding around the house. —Yelena Moroz Alpert, Architectural Digest, 27 June 2025

The campaign also debuts a lineup of fresh summer staples including breezy terry cloth separates and the relaxed Surf Pant—the brand’s bestselling beach pant inspired by classic board shorts. —Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 26 June 2025

It is made from midweight French terry and offers just enough warmth for chilly plane cabins or breezy spring mornings. —Becca Blond, Travel + Leisure, 1 Apr. 2025

The newest edition of Skims Swim features a range of products from signature swim, terry and cotton jersey cover-ups and poolside accessories. —Wwd Staff, WWD, 4 Mar. 2025

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

Rhymes for terry

• aerie
• airy
• arie
• barre
• cherry
• clary
• dairy
• eyrie
• faerie
• faery
• fairy
• ferry

Kids Definition

terry

noun

ter·​ry ˈter-ē 

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 

(Alice) Ellen 1847–1928 English actress