What does lambskin mean?
Lambskin is the skin of a lamb, especially when prepared as soft leather or used to make a warm cap. It is associated with comfort, warmth, and traditional craftsmanship, and the word often appears in fixed pairings such as “lambskin cap” and “lambskin gloves.” In modern English, it most commonly refers either to the material itself or to a cap made from a lamb’s fleece and skin. A lambskin cap is traditionally associated with military and outdoor clothing, although it is also worn as ordinary winter headwear. The term is not restricted to Britain; both British and American English use it, though the precise product described can vary according to context. Compared with general leather, lambskin is especially valued for its softness and insulating qualities.
nounThe skin of a lamb, especially when treated and used to make soft leather or a warm, woolly cap. The term can also refer to material made from a lamb's skin.
- The skin of a lamb, used as leather or soft material.
- A cap made from lambskin, traditionally worn for warmth.
"He wore a soft lambskin cap against the winter cold."
"The gloves were lined with lambskin to make them warm and comfortable."
"She bought a traditional lambskin cap at the market."
Used when referring to multiple hides, items made from lambskin, or several lambskin caps.
"The shop sells a variety of lambskins and wool hats."
A lambskin cap keeps its shape while feeling softer and lighter than most ordinary fabrics.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does lambskin come from?
Lambskin is a compound of the English words “lamb” and “skin.” “Lamb” continues Old English lamb, while “skin” comes from Old English skinn, originally referring to the outer covering of an animal. The compound reflects the straightforward English practice of naming an animal’s hide by combining the animal with the material.
How lambskin is actually used
The word is most commonly used for soft leather or a traditional woolly cap. In some contexts, it is chiefly attributive, as in “lambskin gloves” or “lambskin cap.”
Easily confused with lambskin
Lambskin comes from a young sheep, whereas calfskin comes from a young calf and is generally a different, somewhat firmer leather.