English Reference

Word

textured

Phoneticstex·tured, stress on the first syllable

US/ˈtɛkstʃɝd/

UK/tˈɛkstʃəd/

Definition

adj. having a surface that is not smooth. You use this to describe things that feel rough, bumpy, or have a pattern you can touch.

adj. possessing a surface that is not smooth or uniform; having a tactile quality or a visible pattern of raised and lowered areas.

Examples

“The artist uses textured paper for her watercolor paintings.”

“The interior designer chose a textured wallpaper to add depth and interest to the living room walls.”

“The chef presented a dish with a variety of textured elements, ranging from a smooth pea purée to a crunchy seed cracker and soft roasted vegetables.”

Examples

simple

“The artist uses textured paper for her watercolor paintings.”

contextual

“The interior designer chose a textured wallpaper to add depth and interest to the living room walls.”

complex

“The chef presented a dish with a variety of textured elements, ranging from a smooth pea purée to a crunchy seed cracker and soft roasted vegetables.”

Usage

Often used to describe fabrics, building materials, or artistic surfaces; can be used figuratively to describe complex sounds or writing.

Real-World Examples

“One side of animal skin is smooth, while the other is more textured.”
Phys.org 25 Aug 2026

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
Frequency
Occasional
Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Updated

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English Reference