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 terry handles drying; the waffle's perfect for wrapping my hair. —Jasmine Desiree, Architectural Digest, 3 June 2026

Other delightful details include down pillows and duvets, thick terry bathrooms, and a light-up bathroom mirror for getting up close and personal with every pore. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 2 June 2026

It’s made from modal French terry that feels fuzzy to the touch on the inside, and its drapey fit allows for plenty of airflow. —Caley Sturgill, Southern Living, 22 May 2026

Her garment, a one-piece tracksuit made of a French terry fabric by Alexander McQueen, dresses athleisure one step up with horizontal yellow accents across the chest and ruching up the sleeves. —Kaio Cesar, Los Angeles Times, 11 May 2026

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