taffeta

noun

taf·​fe·​ta ˈta-fə-tə How to pronounce taffeta (audio)
: a crisp plain-woven lustrous fabric of various fibers used especially for women's clothing

Examples of taffeta in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Sunset selfies in thigh-high taffeta and heels and a parade of designer swimwear by the pool are perfectly acceptable. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 2 June 2026 Shop the taffeta pants trend Take, for example, Donni, a loungewear brand popular among cool moms during school pick-ups and weekend playdates. — Jake Henry Smith, Glamour, 11 May 2026 In addition to the eye-catching bodice, Klum's Sophie Couture ballgown featured structured bra cups and a voluminous taffeta skirt that billowed out several feet in all directions. — Chanel Vargas, InStyle, 23 May 2026 The Cult Favorite With a White Canvas Sneaker There’s no better way to dip your toe into the taffeta pant trend than with Chan Luu’s cult-favorite barrel-leg styles. — Laura Jackson, Vogue, 17 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for taffeta

Word History

Etymology

Middle English taffata, from Anglo-French, from Old Italian taffettà, from Turkish tafta, from Persian tāftah woven

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of taffeta was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

TAF
taffeta
taffeta weave
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Taffeta.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/taffeta. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

taffeta

noun
taf·​fe·​ta ˈtaf-ət-ə How to pronounce taffeta (audio)
: a crisp shiny fabric used especially for women's clothing

More from Merriam-Webster on taffeta

Nglish: Translation of taffeta for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about taffeta

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