English Reference

Word

dobby

Phoneticsdob·by

UK/dˈɒbi/

Countable noun

Definition

n. a tiny raised pattern in cloth, like small dots or squares, made with a special part on a loom.

n. a loom attachment that controls warp threads to weave small geometric patterns, and by extension the patterned fabric itself.

Examples

“This shirt has a dobby pattern of tiny squares.”

“The shop sells cotton shirts in plain weave and dobby with small raised dots.”

“The mill specialised in dobby that looked plain from a distance but revealed fine geometric texture on close inspection.”

Examples

simple

“This shirt has a dobby pattern of tiny squares.”

contextual

“The shop sells cotton shirts in plain weave and dobby with small raised dots.”

complex

“The mill specialised in dobby that looked plain from a distance but revealed fine geometric texture on close inspection.”

Collocations

Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “dobby” in context.

Verb

01. dobby distinguishes

“Fine dobby distinguishes luxury shirting from basic poplin.”

noun + verb

02. dobby enhances

“Subtle dobby enhances an otherwise plain cotton shirt.”

noun + verb

03. feature dobby

“The new range features dobby in breathable cotton blends.”

verb + noun

Adjective

04. geometric dobby

“The collection features geometric dobby with tiny raised squares.”

adj + noun

Noun

05. dobby fabric

“Dobby fabric keeps its shape well in warm, humid climates.”

noun + noun

06. dobby loom

“The pattern requires a dobby loom with programmable harnesses.”

noun + noun

07. dobby pattern

“Choose a small-scale dobby pattern for formal business shirts.”

noun + noun

08. dobby weave

“This dobby weave adds breathability and subtle surface interest.”

noun + noun

09. a classic dobby weave

“He wore a blazer in a classic dobby weave with faint diamond texture.”

10. an intricate dobby pattern

“She selected cotton with an intricate dobby pattern for the curtains.”

11. dobby adds subtle texture

“This dobby adds subtle texture without the formality of jacquard.”

12. feature a subtle dobby texture

“These shirts feature a subtle dobby texture ideal for business wear.”

Related words

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C2 ProficiencyIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.8.5–9.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 6.0114–120
Frequency
Occasional
Level
C2 · Proficiency
Updated

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