Plush - Definition and Overview

Plush (from French peluche) is a textile fabric having a cut nap or pile the same as fustian or velvet. Originally the pile of plush consisted of mohair or worsted yarn, but now silk by itself or with a cotton backing is used for plush, the distinction from velvet being found in the longer and less dense pile of plush. The material is largely used for upholstery and furniture purposes, and is also much employed in dress and millinery.

Modern plush is commonly manufactured from synthetic fibres such as polyester. Small stuffed animals made from plush fabric, such as teddy bears, are known as plushies.

This article incorporates text from the public domain 1911 Encyclopædia Britannica.