cashmere
UK[ˈkæʒmɪə]US[ˈkæʒmɪr]
n
A type of very fine, soft wool, or the expensive cloth made from it.
n
A pale greyish-brown colour.
Etymology
The word 'cashmere' is a toponym, derived from the name of the Himalayan region of Kashmir, historically spelled as 'Cashmere' in English. It entered the English language in the late 16th century via the earlier forms 'cassimere' and 'kashmir', referring specifically to fine wool from the Kashmir goat. The term illustrates a common pattern where a place name becomes synonymous with a prized product originating from that region. Over time, its meaning expanded from the material itself to also describe the characteristic colour of the fabric.
Analysis
This word is a loanword adopted as a single, unsegmentable unit into English. Its functional role is as a noun.
Examples
She wore a luxurious cashmere sweater to the evening event.
The scarf was made from the finest grade of cashmere.
We painted the walls a warm cashmere to make the room feel more cozy.