lint

noun

ˈlint 

1

a

: a soft fleecy material made from linen usually by scraping

b

: fuzz consisting especially of fine ravelings and short fibers of yarn and fabric

2

: a fibrous coat of thick convoluted hairs borne by cotton seeds that yields the cotton staple

lintless

ˈlint-ləs 

adjective

linty

ˈlin-tē 

adjective

Synonyms

• down
• floss
• fluff
• fur
• fuzz
• nap
• pile

Examples of lint in a Sentence

I always have lint in my pocket.

The clothes dryer was clogged with lint.

Recent Examples on the Web

Items that shed lint should also be washed separately from corduroy or other fabrics that attract lint, the website advises. —Mark R. Weaver, Newsweek, 4 Dec. 2024

As for my thoughts on Buffalo in the playoffs, that answer awaits along with the lint and crumbs in the bottom of The Satchel. Scoop City Newsletter Free, daily NFL updates direct to your inbox. —Tim Graham, The Athletic, 29 Aug. 2024

This roller is eco-friendly and doesn’t require refills, unlike traditional lint rollers. —Mia Meltzer, Rolling Stone, 25 Nov. 2024

Simply attach it to your vacuum, set the suction power and then suck up the dust lint from your dryer vent or dryer hose. —Nora Colomer, Fox News, 4 Nov. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

lint

noun

ˈlint 

1

: loose fibers or bits of thread

2

: cotton entry 1 sense 1a

lintless

-ləs 

adjective

linty

-ē 

adjective

Medical Definition

lint

noun

ˈlint 

1

: a soft fleecy material used for poultices and dressings for wounds and made from linen usually by scraping

2

British : sterile cotton cloth used for dressings