prunella

[ proo-nel-uh ]

noun

1. a strong, lightweight worsted constructed in a twill weave, used in the manufacture of women's and children's apparel.
2. a smooth-faced fabric made of mixed fibers or wool, formerly used in the manufacture of women's dresses and of robes for clerics, scholars, and lawyers.

prunella

¹

/ pruːˈnɛlə /

noun

1. See selfheal

prunella

²

/ pruːˈnɛlə; pruːˈnɛləʊ; pruːˈnɛl /

noun

1. a strong fabric, esp a twill-weave worsted, used for gowns and the uppers of some shoes

Word History and Origins

Origin of prunella¹

1650–60; perhaps special use of prunelle, from the dark color of the cloth

Word History and Origins

Origin of prunella¹

New Latin, altered from brunella, from German Braüne quinsy, which it was thought to cure

Origin of prunella²

C17: perhaps from prunelle , with reference to the colour of the cloth

Example Sentences

The actor is also survived by his wife, Fawlty Towers star Prunella Scales, to whom he was married for 61 years.

From BBC

The principal cast was completed by Prunella Scales as Sybil, and the late Andrew Sachs as Manuel.

From BBC

Catherine Prunella is an Astoria Horror Club regular, even though she doesn’t consider herself a horror fan.

From New York Times

"Every episode tends to show a glimpse of what Prunella finds herself up against," he wrote.

From BBC

"We didn't start out thinking it was going to be an especially exciting performance for people to watch," admits Timothy, sitting down beside Prunella on a sofa in their front room for an interview with BBC Breakfast.

From BBC