plaid
n. C / Un. a pattern of straight lines that cross each other to make squares. You often see this pattern on warm shirts or blankets.
n. a pattern consisting of crossed horizontal and vertical bands in two or more colours. While historically referring to a specific Scottish garment, it now describes the pattern itself in general textile contexts.
He wore a red and black plaid shirt to the party.
The interior designer chose a subtle plaid for the curtains to give the room a traditional feel.
The collection features heavy woollen fabrics in various plaid patterns, drawing inspiration from traditional Highland dress while maintaining a modern silhouette.
From Scots plaid, of uncertain origin; perhaps from a past participle form of ply. Scottish Gaelic plaide (“blanket”) is probably a borrowing from Scots. Also compare Scottish Gaelic peall (“covering, veil, blanket”) << Latin pellis (“hide, covering”), but the OED finds the sound changes problematic.
Alternative forms.
Uncountable when referring to the pattern in general; countable when referring to a specific type of pattern or a piece of cloth.