velour

noun

ve·​lour və-ˈlu̇r 

variants or velours

plural velours və-ˈlu̇rz 

often attributive

1

: any of various fabrics with a pile or napped surface resembling velvet used in heavy weights for upholstery and curtains and in lighter weights for clothing

also : the article of clothing itself

2

: a fur felt (as of rabbit or nutria) finished with a long velvety nap and used especially for hats

Examples of velour in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Her public identity was forged in the era of velour sweats and garish trucker hats. —Mikey O'Connell, The Hollywood Reporter, 5 Dec. 2024

The interior features grey leather, walnut veneer trim, and velour floor mats, along with some other plush add-ons, like a sliding roof and TV tuner. —Bryan Hood, Robb Report, 25 Nov. 2024

Even better, they are supplied with a choice of velour or pleather ear cushions to suit the user. —Mark Sparrow, Forbes, 27 Oct. 2024

Netflix's Time Cut takes viewers back to the days of velour tracksuits, polo shirts and Ugg boots: the year 2003. —Samantha Stutsman, People.com, 1 Nov. 2024

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from French velours "velvet, velour," going back to Middle French velours, velour, altered (after loss of final consonants and reintroduction of r) from Old French velous, probably (through a northern dialectal outcome) going back to a nominal derivative of Latin villōsus "shaggy, hairy," from villus "shaggy hair, cloth nap" + -ōsus -ose entry 1 — more at velvet entry 1

First Known Use

1794, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

velour

noun

ve·​lour və-ˈlu̇(ə)r 

: a fabric resembling velvet