Brocade is a type of richly decorative fabric that features raised patterns. The spelling of the word is "brocades," with the IPA transcription of /brəˈkeɪdz/. The stress falls on the second syllable, which is pronounced as /kə/. The word is plural, and it is spelled with an "s" at the end to indicate more than one piece of brocade. The spelling and pronunciation of the word make it distinct and easy to understand in written and spoken forms.
Brocades refer to a type of richly decorative woven fabric that typically features intricate patterns woven into the cloth using colored threads of silk, metallic threads, or other luxurious materials. This textile is known for its elegant and opulent appearance, making it a popular choice for creating luxurious garments, upholstery, and home decor items. The word "brocade" originated from the Italian word "broccato" or the Spanish word "brocado," both meaning "embossed cloth."
One distinguishing characteristic of brocades is their elaborate and raised designs, which often include floral motifs, geometric patterns, or intricate figures. These patterns are created using a supplementary weft technique, where additional threads are woven into the fabric at certain points to form the desired design. This weaving technique adds texture and dimension to the fabric, providing a unique and tactile quality.
Brocades are commonly associated with high fashion and have a history of being utilized by royalty and nobility. In the past, brocades were made exclusively by hand, requiring skilled artisans to create these intricate and detailed designs. However, with advancements in technology, brocade production has been modernized, allowing for mass production while maintaining the classic aesthetic.
Today, brocades continue to be highly regarded for their luxurious appeal and are used to make various items such as evening gowns, jackets, draperies, and upholstery. Whether used for clothing or decor, brocades add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any setting.
The word brocades comes from the Old French word brocard, which was derived from the Italian word broccato. The Italian word, in turn, came from the Spanish word brocado, from the verb brocar, meaning to prick or to emboss. These terms were used because brocade fabric typically features raised patterns woven into the cloth. Overall, the etymology of brocades traces back to Latin and ultimately to the Proto-Indo-European root bherg, meaning to shine or to gleam.