How Do You Spell GINGHAM?

Pronunciation: [d͡ʒˈɪŋəm] (IPA)

Gingham is a cotton fabric that is typically woven in a check or stripe pattern. The spelling of gingham is unique in that it does not follow the typical English pronunciation. The word is pronounced /ˈɡɪŋəm/ (GING-əm) with a hard "g" sound, even though the letters "ng" usually create a soft "g" sound. This is likely due to the word's origins in Malay, where the word "ginggang" means striped. Despite its unusual spelling and pronunciation, gingham remains a popular choice for clothing, home decor, and accessories.

GINGHAM Meaning and Definition

1. Gingham is a noun that refers to a lightweight, cotton fabric characterized by a distinct checkered pattern. This fabric is usually woven in a simple, balanced plain or twill weave structure, resulting in a relatively even and smooth texture. Gingham fabric is composed of dyed yarns, typically in two contrasting colors, that are woven together to create a checkered design. The checks formed by the intersecting vertical and horizontal yarns on the fabric appear as evenly-sized squares or rectangles, creating a uniform and appealing pattern.

   Traditionally, gingham fabric features small checks, often in shades of white combined with another color, such as blue, red, or black. However, modern variations may feature larger checks or a wider range of vibrant hues. Gingham is commonly associated with a classic, country or vintage aesthetic and is often used for making clothing, particularly dresses, shirts, and blouses. It is also utilized in the creation of household items like curtains, tablecloths, and napkins, as well as in crafting and quilting applications.

   The term "gingham" is derived from the Malay word "genggang," which means "striped." This originally referred to striped fabrics imported to Europe from Southeast Asia. Over time, the term evolved to specifically describe checkered fabrics and is now widely recognized as a style of fabric with a distinct and recognizable pattern.

2. Cotton cloth, the yarn of which is dyed before being woven-thus distinguished from printed cotton or prints.

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

Common Misspellings for GINGHAM

• binham
• gingam
• grntham
• gigham
• jinghaw
• lingham
• linggam
• Gingga
• giggham
• gawngham

Etymology of GINGHAM

The word "gingham" originated from Malay word "genggang", which means "striped". It was originally used to refer to a striped or checked cotton fabric. The term was later anglicized to "gingham" when it was introduced to the English language in the 17th century.

Similar spelling word for GINGHAM

• ginseng.