wool

noun

ˈwu̇l 

often attributive

1

: the soft wavy or curly usually thick undercoat of various hairy mammals and especially the sheep made up of a matrix of keratin fibers and covered with minute scales

2

: a product of wool

especially : a woven fabric or garment of such fabric

3

a

: a dense felted pubescence especially on a plant : tomentum

b

: a filamentous mass

—usually used in combination compare mineral wool, steel wool

see also:

pull the wool over one's eyes

Synonyms of wool

• hair
• coat
• fleece
• fur

Examples of wool in a Sentence

She doesn't like wool because it can be itchy.

the wool from cashmere goats is considered by many to be the finest available

Recent Examples on the Web

But this fall, designers are offering outerwear and accessories applying the material to a variety of familiar shapes that might otherwise be cut from wool felt or gabardine. — Justin Fenner, Robb Report, 1 Nov. 2026

Handcrafted from Styrofoam, wool, and iron, the whimsical set of four holders combines seasonal charm with practicality. — Better Homes & Gardens, 30 Oct. 2026

Our top picks are made from quality materials like Grade-A Mongolian cashmere and merino wool that feel smooth and soft without feeling too heavy for lounging. — Nashia Baker, Architectural Digest, 29 Oct. 2026

Alongside classic wool coats and puffer jackets, this season is shining a spotlight on a heritage style famously worn by Princess Diana in the 1980s. — Nils Doose, Vogue, 29 Oct. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English wolle, from Old English wull; akin to Old High German wolla wool, Latin vellus fleece, lana wool

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing wool

• combing wool
• cotton wool
• cotton wool ball
• dyed-in-the-wool
• glass wool
• lamb's wool
• mineral wool
• pull the wool over one's eyes
• pull the wool over someone's eyes
• Shetland wool
• steel wool
• virgin wool
• wire wool
• wool fat
• wool grease

Rhymes for wool

• full
• pull
• brimful
• handful
• mirthful
• mouthful
• roomful
• spoonful

Kids Definition

wool

noun

ˈwu̇l 

1

: the soft wavy or curly usually thick undercoat of various mammals and especially the sheep

2

: a fabric or garment made of wool

3

: material that resembles a mass of wool

wooled

ˈwu̇ld

adjective