twill

noun

ˈtwil How to pronounce twill (audio)
1
: a fabric with a twill weave
2
: a textile weave in which the filling threads pass over one and under two or more warp threads to give an appearance of diagonal lines

Examples of twill 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.
Check out Italian leather bags, a chic summer dress, and twill work pants, from $35. — Essence Wiley, InStyle, 5 July 2026 This is especially helpful when the shorts are made with a summer-friendly fabric like linen or twill. — ABC News, 30 June 2026 Meanwhile, the inside is lined with sturdy organic cotton twill, which withstands wear and tear. — Destinee Scott, Travel + Leisure, 3 July 2026 Kristoffer was in London this week for a board meeting and to launch the latest Tekla collection of twill pajamas. — Elektra Kotsoni, Vogue, 8 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for twill

Word History

Etymology

Middle English twyll, twylle, from Old English twilic having a double thread, partial translation of Latin bilic-, bilix, from bi- + licium thread

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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

Phrases Containing twill

Rhymes for twill

See All Rhymes for twill

Browse Nearby Words

twilit
twill
twilled
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

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

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Kids Definition

twill

1 of 2 noun
ˈtwil
: a way of weaving cloth that produces a pattern of diagonal lines

twill

2 of 2 verb
: to make (cloth) with a twill weave

More from Merriam-Webster on twill

Nglish: Translation of twill for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about twill

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