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

Spacious bathrooms with marble counters, Le Labo amenities, and plush terry cloth bathrobes to wrap up in post-shower. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 10 July 2026

Waffle weave towels dry more quickly than a thick, looped terry cloth. — Mary Marlowe Leverette, Southern Living, 9 July 2026

The soft French terry fabric feels cozy but not heavy, while the quarter-zip collar gives it a more put-together look than your average sweatshirt. — Jeaneen Russell, PEOPLE, 2 July 2026

With Statement Accessories Cap d’Antibes cotton-terry dress is the ideal vacation-ready statement. — Minty Mellon, Vogue, 25 June 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