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

Synonyms

• 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

His navy wool Balmain blazer set the tone for sharp refinement, paired with Margiela pants and Louboutin shoes for a sleek, modern edge. —Karissa Mitchell, Essence, 24 Sep. 2025

Just to Taste Incorporate a touch of texture in your typical denim look with a wool cardigan in burgundy, layered perhaps over a white crewneck T-shirt or long-sleeve top. —Christina Holevas, Vogue, 23 Sep. 2025

The first standard, focused on dyes, is live, with cotton and wool certifications coming soon. —Rhonda Richford, Footwear News, 22 Sep. 2025

Try it with dark denim or gray wool trousers for a look that feels crisp and fall-ready. —Rosie Marder, Travel + Leisure, 22 Sep. 2025

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
• 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