cloth
UK[klɒθ]US[klɔːθ]
n
A material made from fibers such as cotton, wool, or silk, used for making clothes, curtains, etc.
n
A piece of this material used for a particular purpose, such as cleaning.
Etymology
The word 'cloth' originates from the Old English 'clāþ', which meant a piece of cloth, a sail, or clothing. This term is derived from the Proto-Germanic 'klaiþaz', also meaning cloth or garment. The deeper Proto-Indo-European root is likely 'gleit-', meaning 'to cling' or 'to stick', conceptually linking to the idea of a fabric that clings to the body or is used to wrap and cover. Over time, the meaning evolved from the specific garment or covering to the general material from which such items are made.
Analysis
This is a simplex word of Old English origin. The root "cloth" functions as a complete, unanalyzable unit in modern English.
Examples
She bought a meter of soft, blue cloth to make a dress.
Please use a damp cloth to wipe the table clean.
The traditional costume is made from a richly embroidered cloth.