How Do You Spell NANKEENS?

Pronunciation: [nˈaŋkiːnz] (IPA)

The word "nankeens" is spelled with two syllables: "nan" and "keens". The first syllable is pronounced with the short "a" sound, and the second syllable ends with a voiced "z" sound. The IPA phonetic transcription for this word is /ˈnæn.kiːnz/. "Nankeens" refer to a type of durable, pale yellow or beige cotton cloth, originally made in China. The word's spelling reflects its history, with "nan" deriving from "Nanking," the former name of the city now called Nanjing.

NANKEENS Meaning and Definition

1. Nankeens refer to a type of cotton fabric that is coarse, lightweight, and usually yellowish-brown or off-white in color. The term "nankeen" originated from the name of the city Nanking (now Nanjing) in China, where the fabric was first produced and exported.

   In terms of its composition, nankeen is made from unbleached cotton yarns that are dyed with a natural yellow dye obtained from the bark of the Rhus tree or the roots of the Chinese gall tree. It typically features a plain weave structure and has a slightly nubby or uneven texture.

   Historically, nankeens were widely used for making clothing, particularly summer garments or casual attire. The fabric's lightness and breathability made it suitable for hot and humid climates. Nankeen fabric was also highly sought after for its durability and resistance to fading, making it popular for workwear, uniforms, and outdoor clothing.

   In addition to clothing, nankeens were used for various other purposes such as accessories, curtains, upholstery, and even painting canvases due to their affordability and versatility.

   Although nankeens are not as commonly used today as they once were, the term is still used to refer to similar types of fabrics, such as lightweight cotton or cotton-blend materials with a coarse texture.

2. Trousers made of nankeen.

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

Common Misspellings for NANKEENS

• nankeen
• nankins
• nankes
• bankeens
• mankeens
• jankeens
• hankeens
• nznkeens
• nsnkeens
• nwnkeens
• nqnkeens
• nabkeens
• namkeens
• najkeens
• nahkeens
• nanjeens
• nanmeens
• nanleens
• nanoeens
• nanieens

Etymology of NANKEENS

The word "nankeens" has its etymology derived from the city of Nanking (now spelled Nanjing) in China. Nankeens refer to a type of cotton fabric that originated in Nanking during the 18th century. The term is believed to have entered the English language in the mid-18th century. It was used to describe the cotton fabric, initially produced in Nanking, known for its durable and yellowish-brown color. Over time, the term "nankeens" also came to refer to clothing made from this fabric.