dowlas

noun

dow·​las

ˈdau̇ləs

plural -es

1

: a coarse linen cloth used widely in the 16th and 17th centuries and manufactured originally in Brittany but later especially in northern England and Scotland

2

: a cotton imitation of dowlas

Word History

Etymology

alteration (influenced by Daoulas) of Middle English douglas, by folk etymology (influence of name Douglas) from Daoulas, Brittany, France

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now