dobby

noun

dob·​by ˈdä-bē How to pronounce dobby (audio)
plural dobbies
1
: a loom attachment for weaving small figures
2
: a fabric or figured weave made with a dobby

Examples of dobby 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.
The Textural group offers a tactile and visual experience through weave designs like herringbone, dobby, and ripstop that enhance denim’s texture and appearance. Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 17 Oct. 2024 Made from breathable cotton with woven dobby texture, this throw blanket would look great draped across the top of a couch or over an accent chair. Jen Cason, Better Homes & Gardens, 11 Sep. 2024 Rhodes described how a blue yarn dye in the warp gives a mixed dobby herringbone fabric an indigo effect with a suiting look and feel. Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 9 Aug. 2024 The fabric can be used in any woven construction, including ripstop, basket, and dobby varieties. Outside Online, 15 Sep. 2022 The dobby fabric is rendered in a lightweight blend of linen, wool, and cotton and was exclusively developed for Purple Label. Joseph Deacetis, Forbes, 10 May 2021 From their fluffy 700 GSM weight to the ribbed dobby, every facet of these towels is designed with intention. Hadley Keller, House Beautiful, 9 June 2020

Word History

Etymology

perhaps from Dobby, nickname for Robert

First Known Use

1878, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of dobby was in 1878

Dictionary Entries Near dobby

Cite this Entry

“Dobby.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dobby. Accessed 18 Dec. 2024.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!