pillowcase

UK: ˈpɪləʊkeɪs | US: ˈpɪloʊkeɪs

Definition

  1. n. a removable cloth cover for a pillow, typically with an opening at one end

Structure
pillow <cushion for head>case <covering>
Etymology

The word "pillowcase" is a straightforward compound of "pillow" (from Old English pyle, meaning "cushion for the head") and "case" (from Latin capsa, meaning "box" or "covering"). The term emerged in the 17th century as a functional descriptor for the fabric cover enclosing a pillow. The logic is literal: a "case" that holds a "pillow."

Examples

  1. She washed the pillowcase and hung it out to dry.

  2. The hotel provides fresh pillowcases daily.

  3. He forgot to pack a spare pillowcase for his trip.

  4. The embroidered pillowcase added a decorative touch to the bed.

  5. The pillowcase was stained and needed to be replaced.