flannel

noun

flan·​nel ˈfla-nᵊl 

1

a

: a soft twilled wool or worsted fabric with a loose texture and a slightly napped surface

b

: a napped cotton fabric of soft yarns simulating the texture of wool flannel

c

: a stout cotton fabric usually napped on one side

2

flannels plural

a

: flannel underwear

b

: outer garments of flannel

especially : men's trousers

3

British : washcloth

4

British : flattering or evasive talk

also : nonsense, rubbish

flannel adjective

flannelly

ˈfla-nᵊl-ē 

adjective

Synonyms

• adulation
• blarney
• butter
• flattery
• incense
• overpraise
• soft soap
• sweet talk
• taffy

Examples of flannel in a Sentence

shirts made of bright-colored flannel

He wore a dark blazer and gray flannels.

Recent Examples on the Web

With softer shoulders and pleated carrot pants, the look feels more current and perfect for Gen Z, as in this Luigi Bianchi flannel number. —Alex Badia, WWD, 17 Jan. 2025

The Antoinette Poisson wallpaper and The Shade Store flannel curtains add texture, while the Maitland Smith lamp and Felix Lighting sconce light up the space. —Troy J. McMullen, Architectural Digest, 17 Jan. 2025

Flannel sherpa dog vest: $29.95 Turn your puppy into an outdoorsmen with their very own flannel sherpa dog vest from L.L. Bean. —Christopher Murray, Fox News, 16 Jan. 2025

Photos show Leno, on one occasion, driving in the bright red truck wearing a red flannel jacket and flashing a peace sign. —Raven Brunner, People.com, 15 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English flaunneol woolen cloth or garment

First Known Use

1503, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing flannel

• canton flannel
• red flannel hash

Kids Definition

flannel

noun

flan·​nel ˈflan-ᵊl 

1

: a soft cloth made of wool or cotton

2

plural : flannel underwear or trousers