English Reference

Word

mercer

Phoneticsmer·cer

US/ˈmɝsɝ/

UK/mˈɜːsɐ/

Definition

n. a person who sells fine fabrics, especially silk and velvet.

n. a merchant who deals in textiles, specifically high-quality fabrics such as silk, velvet, and fine linen.

Examples

“The mercer showed the queen several rolls of fine silk.”

“In medieval London, a wealthy mercer might supply the royal court with imported velvets and embroidered cloths.”

“The rise of the merchant class allowed the local mercer to accumulate significant political influence within the city's governing council.”

Examples

simple

“The mercer showed the queen several rolls of fine silk.”

contextual

“In medieval London, a wealthy mercer might supply the royal court with imported velvets and embroidered cloths.”

complex

“The rise of the merchant class allowed the local mercer to accumulate significant political influence within the city's governing council.”

Usage

Commonly encountered in historical literature or when referring to the Livery Companies of the City of London.

Synonyms

draperclothiermerchant

This entry

Level
C2 · Proficiency
Frequency
Frequent
Updated
Register
Archaic, British English

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English Reference