# Wigan

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/wigan
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Senses

### 1. a town in England

noun · CEFR B1

a large town in Greater Manchester, England, famous for its history and rugby team.

For teachers: a town and metropolitan borough in Greater Manchester, North West England.

- He took the train from London to Wigan to visit his family.
- The industrial heritage of Wigan is still visible in its architecture, though the town has modernised significantly in recent decades.

### 2. stiffening fabric

noun · CEFR C2 · Technical

a strong cotton cloth used inside clothes to help them keep their shape.

For teachers: a canvas-like cotton fabric, often treated with latex, used as a stiffening agent in the hems of trousers and coats.

- The tailor added a layer of wigan to the bottom of the trousers.
- To ensure the heavy wool coat draped correctly, the designer specified a wigan interlining for the cuffs and hem.

Usage: Often used as an uncountable noun when referring to the material in general.

## Examples

- The train stops at Wigan on its way to Scotland.
- After visiting the industrial museum, the tourists spent the afternoon exploring the center of Wigan.
- George Orwell's 'The Road to Wigan Pier' remains a seminal work of social reportage, documenting the harsh living conditions of the working class in Northern England during the 1930s.

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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.