Leather

Definition

Leather is a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to a material made from the hide or skin of animals, typically prepared by tanning or similar processes. As a verb, it means to cover or beat with leather.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈlɛðər/
• Respelling: LETH-er

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈlɛðə/
• Respelling: LETH-uh

Etymology

The word "leather" originates from Old English "leþer," derived from Proto-Germanic "*lethra," meaning "hide or skin," and Proto-Indo-European roots "*led-" or "*lod-," meaning "to make smooth." It has been used since the early medieval period to describe prepared animal skins.

Derivatives

• Leatherette (noun)
• Leathery (adjective)
• Leatherwork (noun)
• Leatherbound (adjective)
• Leatherworker (noun)

Synonyms

• Hide
• Skin
• Pellet

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The term "leather" is widely used in contexts of fashion, upholstery, and crafting. For example, "The jacket was made of genuine leather," or "She leathered the old chair to give it a new look."

Related Terms

• Hide: The raw skin of an animal before tanning.
• Faux leather: Synthetic material designed to resemble leather.
• Tanning: The process of treating animal hides to produce leather.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A material made from tanned animal hide: Refers to a durable and flexible material used in various applications.
  • Example: "The sofa was upholstered in fine leather."
• A strip or piece of leather: Refers to a specific cut or portion of the material.
  • Example: "He used a strip of leather to bind the book."

Verb

• To cover or beat with leather: Describes an action involving leather material.
  • Example: "He leathered the handle to improve its grip."