What does kerseymere mean?
Kerseymere is a fine, soft woolen fabric traditionally used for coats, suits, and other garments. Its surface resembles cashmere, and the word can describe either the material or, less commonly, a garment made from it. In British English, kerseymere has a traditional and slightly old-fashioned character, often suggesting refinement, warmth, and durability. It should not be confused with cashmere in its strict sense: cashmere refers to the fine undercoat of the Kashmir goat, whereas kerseymere is a broader term for a fine woolen fabric. The word is therefore useful for readers encountering period clothing advertisements, literary descriptions, or historical textile terminology. Although the material resembles cashmere, the two names have different geographical associations: kerseymere is linked with Jersey, while cashmere takes its name from Kashmir.
nounA fine, soft woolen fabric resembling cashmere, used especially for coats and other clothing. The term can also refer to clothing made from this fabric.
- A fine, soft woolen fabric resembling cashmere, especially one used for clothing.
- Clothing made from kerseymere fabric.
"He wore a well-tailored kerseymere coat on cold winter days."
"The tailor recommended a lightweight kerseymere for the autumn suit."
"Vintage examples of kerseymere are valued for their exceptionally soft weave."
The plural is rarely needed today, but may be used when referring to several garments made from the fabric.
"The exhibition included several finely tailored kerseymeres."
Kerseymere points geographically to Jersey rather than Kashmir, even though the soft woolen fabric has long been associated with cashmere.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does kerseymere come from?
The word developed in the 19th century from Kerseymere, an earlier name for a fine wool fabric associated with Jersey in the Channel Islands. Its modern sense developed alongside the use of the term for soft, high-quality woolen cloth resembling cashmere. Cashmere itself ultimately comes through English from Kashmir, the source region associated with the finest goat wool.
How kerseymere is actually used
The word is chiefly British and now sounds somewhat old-fashioned. In older usage, it denotes the fabric itself; by extension, it can also denote an article of clothing made from it.
Easily confused with kerseymere
Kerseymere is a traditional term for fine woolen cloth, whereas cashmere specifically denotes the fine wool obtained from Kashmir goats, although British usage also applies “cashmere” to fabric made from that wool.