What does suede mean?
Suede is a soft leather characterized by a fine, velvety nap, traditionally produced from the underside of pigskin or goatskin rather than the tougher outer surface of an animal hide. Its distinctive texture has made it especially popular for jackets, shoes, gloves, bags, and upholstery, while imitation suede is also manufactured with synthetic fabrics. The word can describe either the leather itself, a surface finish that resembles it, or an item made with such a material. Suede is generally associated with a luxurious, soft, and sometimes warm appearance, although its nap can be difficult to maintain and may stain or wear unevenly. Etymologically, the word is unusual because it ultimately refers to a pig: French suède came from Swedish svin, meaning 'swine,' reflecting the material's early association with pigskin. The modern term has consequently expanded from a specific leather to a broader description of textures prized for their softness and understated appearance.
A soft leather made from the underside of an animal's skin, especially pigskin or goatskin, with a fine velvety surface; also a material or finish made to resemble this leather.
"A patch of suede covered one elbow of the jacket."
Usually an uncountable material noun; plural forms are uncommon and generally distinguish different varieties.
Made of suede or having a surface resembling suede.
"The shoes have a soft suede upper."
Most often used attributively before a noun, such as 'suede jacket' or 'suede gloves.'
To make the surface of something resemble suede.
"The manufacturer sued the fabric to give it a softer appearance."
This verb is uncommon and is chiefly used in manufacturing, upholstery, and fashion contexts.
The plural is uncommon; suede is normally used as an uncountable noun when referring to the material in general.
"The designer compared several suedes before choosing the one for the lining."
Suede began with a pig: its name ultimately comes from a Germanic word meaning 'swine,' reflecting the material's early association with pigskin.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does suede come from?
The English word comes through French suède, which was borrowed from Swedish svin, meaning 'swine.' The name reflects the material's early association with pigskin. Its ultimate source is the Germanic word for pig, a cognate of English swine, rather than a term connected with softness or velvet.
Related word forms
How suede is actually used
Suede is usually treated as a mass noun when referring to the material, although plurals such as 'suedes' are used for different varieties. In clothing and furniture descriptions, 'suede' commonly functions as a modifier, as in 'suede boots' or 'suede upholstery.'
Easily confused with suede
Suede is a type of leather with a soft, velvety surface, while sued is the past tense of sue, meaning to bring a legal action against someone.