linen

1 of 2

adjective

lin·​en ˈli-nən 

1

: made of flax

2

: made of or resembling linen

linen

2 of 2

noun

1

a

: cloth made of flax and noted for its strength, coolness, and luster

b

: thread or yarn spun from flax

2

: clothing or household articles made of linen cloth or similar fabric

3

: paper made from linen fibers or with a linen finish

Examples of linen in a Sentence

Noun

She washes the linen every week.

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

For example, buyers will be able to choose everything from their own light fixtures to linens, towels, artwork, and wall coverings. —Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 14 Feb. 2025

Sweet Rose 3-Piece Kitchen Linen Set This three-piece linen set includes a matching kitchen towel, oven mitt, and pot holder for a cohesive yet functional addition to your collection. —Megan Schaltegger, Southern Living, 13 Feb. 2025

Use a linen bedsheet as a tablecloth or tape down a length of butcher paper! —Kendra Vaculin, Bon Appétit, 11 Feb. 2025

For instance, look at the fibers and materials used to make the clothing item: cotton, silk, linen, flax and wool are natural fibers that will last longer. —Jessica Dickler,ana Teresa Solá, CNBC, 6 Feb. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Adjective

Middle English, from Old English līnen, from līn flax, from Latin linum flax; akin to Greek linon flax, thread

First Known Use

Adjective

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Noun

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing linen

• bed linen(s)
• table linen

Kids Definition

linen

noun

lin·​en

ˈlin-ən

1

: smooth strong cloth or yarn made from flax

2

: household articles (as tablecloths or sheets) or clothing (as shirts or underwear) that were once often made of linen

linen adjective