plaid

noun

ˈplad How to pronounce plaid (audio)
Synonyms of plaidnext
1
: a rectangular length of tartan worn over the left shoulder as part of the Scottish national costume
2
a
: a twilled woolen fabric with a tartan pattern
b
: a fabric with a pattern of tartan or an imitation of tartan
3
a
: tartan sense 1
b
: a pattern of unevenly spaced repeated stripes crossing at right angles
plaid adjective
plaided
ˈpla-dəd How to pronounce plaid (audio)
adjective

Examples of plaid in a Sentence

She likes to wear plaids.
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.
As seen above, even a hot pink top welcomes a playful edge to a classic plaid midi-skirt and chunky boots. — India Roby, Glamour, 27 Aug. 2026 Barn jackets and trench coats are quintessential fall outerwear, and this plaid-collar find combines both. — Anna Traver, InStyle, 25 Aug. 2026 The masked person, carrying a distinctive blue plaid backpack, was last seen ducking into the SEPTA metro train’s Suburban Station. — David K. Li, NBC news, 20 Aug. 2026 The Clueless Capsule Kit will feature Cher’s infamous yellow-plaid set, layered tops, button-front skirts, workout wear and overalls inspired by Tai. — Tanya Fedak, Variety, 20 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for plaid

Word History

Etymology

Scottish Gaelic plaide

First Known Use

1512, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of plaid was in 1512

Phrases Containing plaid

Rhymes for plaid

See All Rhymes for plaid

Browse Nearby Words

plaice
plaid
plaided
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Plaid.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/plaid. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

plaid

noun
ˈplad How to pronounce plaid (audio)
1
: a rectangular length of tartan worn over the shoulder as part of the Scottish national costume
2
: a fabric with a tartan pattern
3
a
: tartan sense 1
b
: a pattern of unevenly spaced repeated stripes crossing at right angles
plaid adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on plaid

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for plaid

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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