herringbone

1 of 2

noun

her·​ring·​bone ˈher-iŋ-ˌbōn How to pronounce herringbone (audio)
ˈhe-riŋ-
often attributive
1
: a pattern made up of rows of parallel lines which in any two adjacent rows slope in opposite directions
2
a
: a twilled fabric with a herringbone pattern
also : a suit made of this fabric
b
: a herringbone arrangement (as of materials or parts)
3
: a method in skiing of ascending a slope by herringboning

Illustration of herringbone

Illustration of herringbone
  • herringbone 1

herringbone

2 of 2

verb

herringboned; herringboning; herringbones

transitive verb

1
: to produce a herringbone pattern on
2
: to arrange in a herringbone pattern

intransitive verb

1
: to produce a herringbone pattern
2
: to ascend a slope by toeing out on skis and placing the weight on the inner side

Examples of herringbone in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Noun
The upscale luggage is made with a woven herringbone material, an aluminum handle that locks into place, and the brand’s signature lining inside. Gabriella Maestri, Travel + Leisure, 18 May 2024 The formal dining room is adjacent to the main kitchen and showcases herringbone parquet floors, a fireplace, and outdoor access. Demetrius Simms, Robb Report, 9 May 2024 See all Example Sentences for herringbone 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'herringbone.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1659, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Verb

1787, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of herringbone was in 1659

Dictionary Entries Near herringbone

Cite this Entry

“Herringbone.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/herringbone. Accessed 29 May. 2024.

Kids Definition

herringbone

noun
her·​ring·​bone
ˈher-iŋ-ˌbōn
1
: a pattern of rows of parallel lines with every other row slanting in the opposite direction
2
: a fabric with a herringbone pattern
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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