velvet
UK: ˈvɛlvɪt | US: ˈvɛlvɪt
n. a soft, luxurious fabric with a dense pile of evenly cut fibers
adj. resembling velvet in texture or appearance; smooth and soft
The word "velvet" traces back to Old French veluotte, derived from velu ("hairy, shaggy"), itself from Latin villus ("tuft of hair"). The suffix -et denotes a diminutive form, originally implying "little hairy fabric." Over time, the term evolved to describe the plush, tufted textile we know today. The Latin root villus also connects to words like "velour" and "fleece," emphasizing the shared idea of soft, fibrous textures.
She wore a gown made of deep blue velvet to the gala.
The kitten's fur felt like velvet under my fingertips.
The artist used velvet tones to create a soothing atmosphere in the painting.
Velvet curtains blocked out the sunlight, keeping the room dim.
His voice was as smooth as velvet, calming everyone in the room.