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

These Reeboks have a terry lining that absorbs moisture to help keep your feet dry, and include a removable foam sock liner for lightweight support. —Rylee Johnston, Travel + Leisure, 12 Apr. 2025

If your lineup could use more comfortable loungewear, this terry hoodie is on sale for $4, and this versatile ribbed set is $25 off. —Ali Faccenda, Peoplemag, 13 Sep. 2024

The product collection features a soft, heavyweight cotton T-shirt built with comfort and fit in mind; a midweight French terry fabric hoodie; and an unstructured club cap with a mid-depth design. —Sportico Staff, Sportico.com, 28 Mar. 2025

Ridge Merino Hyde Hoodie ($150): This 100 percent merino wool hoodie uses a 275 GSM terry weave merino that doesn't feel like wool. —Scott Gilbertson, WIRED, 6 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