seersucker
UK[ˈsɪəsʌkə]US[ˈsɪrsʌkər]
n
a light fabric, typically cotton, with a crinkled surface, often striped.
Etymology
the word 'seersucker' entered english in the 18th century from the hindi term 'sīrsakar', which itself was derived from the persian phrase 'shīr o shakar', literally meaning 'milk and sugar'. this vivid metaphor described the fabric's distinctive appearance, with its alternating smooth and puckered stripes, reminiscent of the contrasting textures and colors of milk and sugar. the term was carried to the west via colonial trade routes, particularly from bengal. it retains its original form and its descriptive, metaphorical meaning in modern english, referring specifically to the lightweight, crinkled cloth.
Analysis
this word is a loanword from hindi and persian, adopted as a single lexical unit in english.
Examples
he wore a comfortable seersucker suit to the summer garden party.
the classic blue and white seersucker is a staple of southern american style.
she preferred seersucker for her summer dresses because it was cool and didn't require ironing.