Definition of textile

The word "textile" has its origins in the Latin word "textilis," which means "woven." The term referred to fabrics that were woven, rather than those that were knitted or felted. In medieval times, the word "textile" was used to describe any woven or knotted material, such as clothing or household items. It was known as a "textus" in Latin, which later evolved into the French word "texte" and then into the English word "textile" in the 19th century. The word "textile" gained popularity during the Industrial Revolution, as textile manufacturing became a major industry. The development of new technologies and machines allowed for the mass production of fabrics, leading to increased demand for textiles. Today, the term "textile" encompasses a diverse range of materials, from natural fibers like cotton and wool, to synthetic fibers like polyester and nylon. It also includes items beyond just fabric, such as carpets, rugs, and nonwoven materials like paper or geotextiles used for landscaping. The meaning of the word may have broadened, but its roots remain anchored in the age-old tradition of weaving a fabric tale.