Fabric

/ˈfæbrɪk/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A material, typically produced by weaving or knitting textile fibers, used for clothing or other items.
The dress was made of a soft, flowing fabric that felt lovely against the skin.
The underlying structure or framework of something.
The fabric of the community was strengthened through various outreach programs.
The arrangement or system of concepts or elements within a particular context.
The novel examines the fabric of society during the Great Depression.

Etymology

Middle English, from Old French 'fabrique' meaning 'manufacture, workmanship' from Latin 'fabrica' meaning 'craftsmanship'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

fabric of society
The interconnected and interdependent elements of a community or culture.
fabricated story
A made-up or fictionalized account, often with the intent to deceive.
fabric of reality
The foundational components or aspects that make up existence.

Related Words

textile
A type of fabric made from weaving or knitting fibers.
fiber
A slender and elongated structural element of textile.
weave
To interlace strands of material to create fabric.

Slang Meanings

To fabricate or create something, often in a deceptive manner.
He totally fabric'd that story about his weekend.
Good fabric; used to refer to quality material in slang.
That jacket is serious fabric!