What does shearling mean?
Shearling refers to wool obtained from a sheep, and, in another common use, to sheepskin that has been processed while retaining its fleece. Unlike ordinary wool, which may be cleaned, dyed, and spun into yarn, shearling is especially associated with soft, warm garments, jackets, coats, hats, and boots. The material is valued for its insulating properties and supple texture. In clothing descriptions, “shearling” can suggest the traditional warmth and durability of sheepskin, while also carrying an image of luxury or rugged outdoor wear. The word is related to “shear,” because the wool is obtained by shearing, although modern use also includes sheepskin leather with the wool attached. When used broadly, shearling may mean either the shorn fleece or the finished hide-and-wool material, so the surrounding context usually clarifies which product is meant.
Wool shorn from a sheep, especially when used for clothing.
"The lining was made from warm shearling."
Often used for wool retained in its natural fleece or processed into a soft, insulating material.
Sheepskin leather with the fleece left attached, used for garments and footwear.
"He bought a pair of shearling boots for the winter."
This sense is particularly common in descriptions of coats, jackets, boots, and other outdoor clothing.
Plural forms are used when referring to multiple garments or items made from shearling.
"The shop sells shearlings, hats, and boots for cold weather."
Shearling is the rare material that keeps the sheep's coat and the sheep's skin together, turning one animal into both a source of wool and a supple, insulating hide.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does shearling come from?
The word derives from “shear,” with a suffix that historically indicates a young or small animal, and originally referred to the wool of a young sheep. Its development reflects the long use of sheep fleece and sheepskin as insulating materials. The term now also names the processed sheepskin leather in which the fleece remains attached to the hide.
Related word forms
How shearling is actually used
The term is most often used in the context of clothing and footwear. It can sound informal or trade-oriented compared with the more general terms “fleece” and “sheepskin,” but it is also used in descriptions of high-quality outerwear.
Easily confused with shearling
A fleece is the natural coat of wool on a sheep, while shearling usually refers either to shorn wool or to sheepskin processed with the fleece still attached.