# suede

/ˈsweɪd/ (US) · /swˈeɪd/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/suede
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

a type of leather with a soft, fuzzy surface. It is often used to make shoes, jackets, and bags.

For teachers: leather with a napped, velvety finish on the flesh side, produced by buffing or sanding. Often used as a modifier before other nouns.

## Examples

- He wore a pair of brown suede shoes to the party.
- You should apply a protective spray to your suede jacket to prevent water stains from ruining the soft texture.
- The designer's autumn collection featured heavy use of charcoal suede, contrasting the matte, brushed texture of the hides against the high-gloss finish of polished silk accents.

## Usage notes

- Uncountable when referring to the material; can be used as an attributive noun (e.g., 'suede boots').

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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.