# plaid

/ˈpɫæd/ (US) · /plˈeɪd/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/plaid
Updated: 2026-08-27

## Senses

### 1. the pattern

noun · CEFR B1 · American English

a pattern of colored lines that cross each other to make squares.

For teachers: a pattern consisting of longitudinal and transverse lines of varying widths and colors that cross at right angles.

- He wore a red and black plaid shirt to the party.
- The designer chose a subtle grey plaid for the winter collection, aiming for a look that was professional yet visually interesting.

Usage: In American English, 'plaid' is the standard word for the pattern; in British English, 'tartan' is more common for specific Scottish designs.

### 2. Scottish garment

noun · CEFR C1 · British English

a long piece of heavy wool cloth with a tartan pattern, worn over the shoulder as part of traditional Scottish dress.

For teachers: a rectangular length of tartan cloth, traditionally worn over the shoulder as a garment in the Scottish Highlands.

- The bagpiper wore a traditional plaid over his shoulder during the parade.
- The ceremonial uniform included a heavy woollen plaid, pinned at the shoulder with a silver brooch featuring the clan's crest.

Teaching tip: In a historical or Scottish context, this refers to the specific garment rather than just the pattern.

### 3. having a checkered pattern

adjective · CEFR B1 · American English

having a pattern of crossing lines and squares.

For teachers: decorated with or featuring a pattern of stripes crossing at right angles.

- She bought some plaid curtains to match the rustic style of the cabin.
- The interior was decorated with plaid upholstery and dark wood, creating a cozy, traditional atmosphere in the library.

## Examples

- 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.

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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.