nankeen Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun a durable fabric formerly loomed by hand in China from natural cotton having a yellowish color

WordNet

Nan*keen" noun
Etymology
So called from its being originally manufactured at Nankin, in China.
Definitions
  1. A species of cloth, of a firm texture, originally brought from China, made of a species of cotton (Gossypium religiosum) that is naturally of a brownish yellow color quite indestructible and permanent.
  2. An imitation of this cloth by artificial coloring.
  3. pl. Trousers made of nankeen. Ld. Lytton.

Webster 1913