fabric

Pronunciation: /ˈfæbrɪk/ (American English)

Origin: From Latin fabrica meaning "workshop, art, trade," derived from faber meaning "craftsman"

Part of Speech: noun

Meanings:

1. Cloth or material produced by weaving, knitting, or felting fibers
2. The basic structure or texture of something
3. A building or complex structure

Example Sentences:

1. The dress was made of a silky, flowing fabric.
2. The fabric of society was torn apart by the civil war.
3. The architect designed an impressive fabric of steel and glass.

Related Words:

• Verb: fabricate
• Adjective: fabrical
• Synonyms: cloth, material, textile, weave, structure, framework

Memorizable Tricks:

• Think "FAB-ric" - Fabulous materials are made of fabric!
• Remember the phrase "the fabric of society" to recall its metaphorical use.
• Fabric and fabricate share the same root, both involving creation or construction.