velour

noun

ve·​lour və-ˈlu̇r 

variants or velours

plural velours və-ˈlu̇rz 

often attributive

1

: any of various fabrics with a pile or napped surface resembling velvet used in heavy weights for upholstery and curtains and in lighter weights for clothing

also : the article of clothing itself

2

: a fur felt (as of rabbit or nutria) finished with a long velvety nap and used especially for hats

Examples of velour in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Pearl Travel Jewelry Case The exterior of this travel jewelry case is constructed with a glossy vegan patent leather that gives it a rich feel; meanwhile, the interior is lined with a layer of soft velour. —Olivia Young, Travel + Leisure, 22 Nov. 2025

According to Martha Stewart’s winter fashion forecast, velour lounge sets are in. —Emily Weaver, PEOPLE, 14 Nov. 2025

The boot, which retails between $1,795 and $1,845, is available in both 85mm and 100mm heels, along with calf leather and velour finishes. —Maggie Clancy, Footwear News, 12 Nov. 2025

The pieces are covered in machine-washable plush velour, and the set is backed by a three-year warranty. —Bestreviews, Mercury News, 23 Oct. 2025

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from French velours "velvet, velour," going back to Middle French velours, velour, altered (after loss of final consonants and reintroduction of r) from Old French velous, probably (through a northern dialectal outcome) going back to a nominal derivative of Latin villōsus "shaggy, hairy," from villus "shaggy hair, cloth nap" + -ōsus -ose entry 1 — more at velvet entry 1

First Known Use

1794, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for velour

• amour
• auteur
• grandeur
• hauteur
• verdure
• voyeur
• doer
• poor
• poore
• raconteur

Kids Definition

velour

noun

ve·​lour və-ˈlu̇(ə)r 

: a fabric resembling velvet