plaid
- 01 B1 Intermediate
n.a pattern of colored lines that cross each other to make squares.
n.a pattern consisting of longitudinal and transverse lines of varying widths and colors that cross at right angles.
Simple“He wore a red and black plaid shirt to the party.”
In context“The designer chose a subtle grey plaid for the winter collection, aiming for a look that was professional yet visually interesting.”
UsageIn American English, 'plaid' is the standard word for the pattern; in British English, 'tartan' is more common for specific Scottish designs.
- 02 C1 Advanced
n.a long piece of heavy wool cloth with a tartan pattern, worn over the shoulder as part of traditional Scottish dress.
n.a rectangular length of tartan cloth, traditionally worn over the shoulder as a garment in the Scottish Highlands.
Simple“The bagpiper wore a traditional plaid over his shoulder during the parade.”
In context“The ceremonial uniform included a heavy woollen plaid, pinned at the shoulder with a silver brooch featuring the clan's crest.”
Teacher's tipIn a historical or Scottish context, this refers to the specific garment rather than just the pattern.
- 03 B1 Intermediate
adj.having a pattern of crossing lines and squares.
adj.decorated with or featuring a pattern of stripes crossing at right angles.
Simple“She bought some plaid curtains to match the rustic style of the cabin.”
In context“The interior was decorated with plaid upholstery and dark wood, creating a cozy, traditional atmosphere in the library.”
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.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.