satin

[sat-n]

noun

1. a fabric in a warp-effect or filling-effect satin weave, as acetate, rayon, nylon, or silk, often having a glossy face and a soft, slippery texture.

2. satin weave.

3. a dress or other garment of satin.

   She wore her green satin.

adjective

1. of or like satin; smooth; glossy.

2. made of or covered or decorated with satin.

   a satin pillow.

satin

/ ˈsætɪn /

noun

1. a fabric of silk, rayon, etc, closely woven to show much of the warp, giving a smooth glossy appearance

2. (modifier) of or like satin in texture

   a satin finish

Other Word Forms

• satin-like adjective
• satiny adjective
• satinlike adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of satin¹

1325–75; Middle English satyn ( e ) < Middle French satin, probably < Arabic ( aṭlas ) zaytūnī (satin) of Zaitun a city in China where the cloth was made, probably Tsinkiang

Word History and Origins

Origin of satin¹

C14: via Old French from Arabic zaitūnī of Zaytūn, Arabic rendering of Chinese Tseutung (now Tsinkiang ), port in southern China from which the cloth was probably first exported

Example Sentences

On top of the book lies a giant lipstick-stained wine glass, and an actor lying face down in a bubble-shaped, burgundy satin cloak — or, Drew Rollins playing the role of spilled wine.

From Los Angeles Times

He excelled at curvaceous silhouettes, jewel and floral colors, rich wool or satin fabrics.

From Los Angeles Times

Early on, and briefly, waiters were unfortunately tricked out in white wigs and satin knee breeches, a la Versailles-on-the-Venice-canals.

From Los Angeles Times

There were satin boxing boots in hot pink and periwinkle.

From Los Angeles Times

And originally it was conceived as a notebook, like a real journal, and that’s why there’s that satin string in there.

From Salon

Related Words

• glistening www.thesaurus.com
• polished 
• shiny 
• silky