Definition

A type of fabric that has been coated with oil or paint to make it waterproof, often used for covering tables and shelves.

Example

The table was covered with a colorful oilcloth to protect it from spills.

Conversation

I just bought some new oilcloth for the kitchen table.

That sounds great! Is it colorful?

Yes, it has a lovely floral pattern that brightens up the room.

Perfect! Oilcloth is so practical for messes too.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Oilcloth is formed from "oil" (from Old English "æle", meaning a fatty substance) and "cloth" (from Old English "clāþ", meaning a piece of fabric). The word refers to a type of fabric that has been treated with oil to make it waterproof.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'fatty substance' ('oil') that is used to treat a 'piece of fabric' ('cloth') to make it waterproof. This helps you remember that oilcloth is a fabric treated with oil.

Visually Confused Words