merino

[ muh-ree-noh ]

noun

, plural me·ri·nos.

1. (often initial capital letter) one of a breed of sheep, raised originally in Spain, valued for their fine wool.
2. wool from such sheep.
3. a yarn or fabric made from this wool.

adjective

1. made of merino wool, yarn, or cloth.

merino

/ məˈriːnəʊ /

noun

1. a breed of sheep, originating in Spain, bred for their fleece
2. the long fine wool of this sheep
3. the yarn made from this wool, often mixed with cotton
4. pure merino informal.
   1. history a free settler rather than a convict
   2. an affluent and socially prominent person
   3. ( as modifier )

      a pure merino cricketer

adjective

1. made from merino wool

Word History and Origins

Origin of merino¹

1775–85; < Spanish < Arabic ( banū ) marīn a Berber tribe known for raising this breed

Word History and Origins

Origin of merino¹

C18: from Spanish, origin uncertain

Example Sentences

Grasso uses a mix of fibers — mohair, merino wool, cotton, silk, recycled fibers and dead stock acrylic.

From Los Angeles Times

He pointed to one model wearing a skinny black pant with built-in pink cummerbund and purple merino wool turtleneck.

From Seattle Times

The exterior is made of tough acrylic fibers, but the interior is lined with brushed merino wool, so the slippers feel soft and toasty warm even on cool tile floors.

From Los Angeles Times

The exterior is made of tough acrylic fibers, but the interior is lined with brushed merino wool, so they feel soft and toasty warm even on cool tile floors.

From Los Angeles Times

About 340 sheep in the merino family — whose wool is often used to make sweaters and socks — contentedly grazed on dry, yellow grass.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• cashmere
• fleece
• fur
• hair
• mohair
• tweed
• yarn