# Kashmir

/ˈkæʃmiɹ/ (US) · /kˈæʃmiə/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/kashmir
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Senses

### 1. geographic region

noun · CEFR B2

a mountainous area in the north of the Indian subcontinent, currently divided between India, Pakistan, and China.

For teachers: a contested geographic region of South Asia located in the northern part of the Indian subcontinent.

- The family spent their summer holiday trekking through the mountains of Kashmir.
- Diplomatic discussions regarding the status of Kashmir have remained a central point of tension in South Asian geopolitics for decades.

### 2. soft wool

noun · CEFR C1 · Archaic

a very soft, high-quality wool made from the hair of a specific type of goat.

For teachers: an alternative spelling of cashmere, referring to the fine, soft wool obtained from the Kashmir goat.

- She wore a warm scarf made of fine Kashmir wool.
- The merchant specialised in the export of raw Kashmir, which was then processed into luxury garments in European factories.

Usage: In modern English, the spelling 'cashmere' is almost always used for the fabric, while 'Kashmir' is reserved for the region.

## Examples

- Kashmir is famous for its beautiful mountains and lakes.
- The traditional houseboats on the lakes of Kashmir attract many tourists during the summer months.
- The geopolitical significance of Kashmir has shaped regional diplomacy for decades, though it remains equally renowned for its unique architectural styles and intricate handicraft traditions.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.