How Do You Spell CORDWAIN?

Pronunciation: [kˈɔːdwe͡ɪn] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "Cordwain" may seem confusing at first glance, but its pronunciation is actually quite straightforward. Using IPA phonetic transcription, the word is pronounced as /ˈkɔːdweɪn/. The "w" in the middle of the word is silent, so the word is essentially pronounced as "cord-ain". Cordwain refers to a type of high-quality leather made from goat or sheepskin, and was commonly used in the Middle Ages to make shoes, belts, and other leather goods.

CORDWAIN Meaning and Definition

1. Cordwain is a noun that refers to a type of leather that is traditionally produced from sheep or goat skins. This term is derived from the Old French word "cordewan," which originated from the Arabic word "khordo'an," meaning "made of Cordoba," indicating its historical association with the city of Cordoba in Spain.

   Cordwain is typically characterized by its fine and durable texture, often used for making high-quality shoes, boots, and other leather goods. It is known for its suppleness, strength, and ability to take and hold dye well. The leather is processed through various treatments, including tanning and dyeing, to enhance its appearance and functionality.

   Historically, cordwain was particularly popular during the medieval and Renaissance periods, prized for its craftsmanship and quality. It was favored by shoemakers and tailored into luxury items worn by nobility and the wealthier classes. Cordwain shoes were seen as a symbol of status and were regarded as a mark of high social standing.

   Although the usage of cordwain has evolved over time, with the advent of modern tanning techniques and the availability of different types of leather, the term still survives in certain contexts to describe fine leather products or to evoke a sense of tradition and craftsmanship associated with cordwain.

2. Spanish leather.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for CORDWAIN

• corfdwain

Etymology of CORDWAIN

The word "Cordwain" is derived from the Old French term "cordouan" or "cordewan", which in turn comes from the Arabic word "qurtuba". "Qurtuba" was the Arabic name for the city of Cordoba in Southern Spain, renowned for its high-quality leather production during the Middle Ages. The term "cordwain" initially referred to a type of fine leather produced in Cordoba. However, over time, it came to represent not only the leather itself but also shoes made from this leather. Hence, "cordwain" eventually evolved into the English word "cordovan", still used today to refer to a type of high-quality leather.

Plural form of CORDWAIN is CORDWAINS