Definition

Small balls of fiber that form on the surface of fabric due to wear and tear.

Example

After several washes, the sweater started to show pilling, making it look old and worn out.

Conversation

Have you noticed any pilling on your sweater after washing it?

Yeah, I saw some little balls of fiber forming.

I hate when that happens; it makes the clothes look old.

I know, right? I guess we need to be careful with our laundry.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To form small balls or lumps on a surface, often referring to fabric or material that has developed these small, fuzzy balls due to wear.

Example

After several washes, the sweater started pilling and looked worn out.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Have you noticed how the sweater is pilling already?

Yeah, that happens with cheaper fabrics sometimes.

I guess I should have invested in a better quality one.

Root Explanation

Pilling originates from the verb 'pill', which comes from the Old English 'pyllian', meaning to strip off or remove. The suffix '-ing' indicates the action or process. Therefore, 'pilling' refers to the process of removing or stripping off, often used in the context of fabric or textiles.

Memory Tip

Think of the Old English word 'pyllian', which means to strip off, to remember that 'pilling' refers to the process of removing small fibers from fabric.

Visually Confused Words