What does damask mean?
Damask is a richly patterned fabric — traditionally silk, but also woven in linen or wool — distinguished by ornate designs that appear on both sides of the cloth thanks to a special weaving technique. Named after the Syrian city of Damascus, a major center of textile trade in the Middle Ages, damask became prized across Europe for tablecloths, napkins, curtains, and upholstery, and it still carries connotations of elegance, formality, and old-world refinement. The word also refers to the damask rose, a fragrant pink rose brought to Europe from the Middle East, and by extension to a deep rosy-pink color. Used mostly in interior design, fashion history, and formal entertaining, damask remains a staple term for anyone describing classic, luxurious fabrics.
A figured fabric of silk, linen, or wool with a woven pattern visible on both sides, used especially for table linens and upholstery.
"The antique chest held bolts of crimson damask imported from the East."
A fragrant pink Middle Eastern rose, or the deep pink color named after it.
"Damask roses have been cultivated since antiquity for their perfume."
To weave or ornament (a fabric or surface) with an intricate pattern.
"The craftsman damasked the metal shield with swirling arabesques."
Rare in modern usage; found mainly in descriptions of historical decorative arts.
Used when referring to multiple types, pieces, or varieties, such as different damask fabrics or several damask roses.
"The showroom displayed damasks in ivory, crimson, and gold."
Named after Damascus, this luxurious fabric was so prized in medieval Europe that owning it signaled wealth — and its name lives on today in a rose and a shade of pink.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of damask
The word damask comes via Middle English and Old French from the phrase 'damaske' meaning 'of Damascus', referring to the Syrian city famed for producing luxurious silks during the medieval period. The same city gave English the word 'damascene', describing elaborately inlaid metalwork, and possibly 'damson', a type of plum once thought to come from the region. By extension, the name was applied to the fragrant damask rose introduced to Europe from the Middle East, and later to the distinctive deep pink color associated with that flower.
Related word forms
How damask is actually used
Primarily used in formal or traditional contexts relating to fine household linens, upholstery, and historic textiles; as a verb, 'damask' is now rare and largely confined to discussions of historical decorative arts.
Easily confused with damask
Damascus is Syria's capital city, whereas damask is the fabric or rose whose name derives from that city.