percale
UK[pəˈkeɪl]US[pərˈkeɪl]
n
A closely woven, smooth cotton fabric, typically used for bedsheets and clothing.
Etymology
The word 'percale' entered English in the early 17th century from French, where it referred to a type of fabric. The French term was likely borrowed from Persian pargālah, meaning 'rag' or 'piece of cloth'. This Persian origin points to the fabric's historical trade routes from the East. The term's journey reflects the movement of material goods and their names from Asia into European languages, solidifying in English to specify a distinct, smooth, and durable cotton weave.
Analysis
This word is a loanword adopted as a single unit. It does not contain productive morphemes in English that can be meaningfully segmented from its current spelling.
Examples
The hotel boasts luxurious bedding made from high-thread-count percale.
She prefers percale sheets for their crisp, cool feel in the summer.
This shirt is made from a lightweight percale, making it ideal for warm weather.