Definition

The edge of a piece of fabric that is finished to prevent fraying.

Example

The tailor carefully cut the fabric, making sure to keep the selvedge intact.

Conversation

I just bought some new fabric for my sewing project.

That's great! Does it have a nice selvedge edge?

Yes, it does! I love working with good quality selvedge fabrics.

It makes such a difference in the final look of the garment.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Selvedge comes from the Old English 'self' (meaning self or same) and 'edge' (meaning border or margin). The term originally referred to the edge of a piece of fabric that is finished to prevent unraveling, thus being the 'self' edge of the material.

Memory Tip

Think of the 'self' edge of fabric that keeps it from unraveling — that's why selvedge refers to the finished edge of cloth.

Visually Confused Words