What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
shammy
Example
I need to use a shammy to clean the car windows. [shammy: noun]
Example
The jacket was made of shammy leather and felt very soft. [shammy: adjective]
Example
After swimming, I used a shammy towel to dry off quickly. [shammy: noun]
chamois
Example
I need to use a chamois to clean the car windows. [chamois: noun]
Example
The chamois is a nimble and agile animal that lives in mountainous regions. [chamois: noun]
Example
The gloves were made of chamois leather and felt very soft. [chamois: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Shammy is more commonly used in everyday language than chamois, especially in North America where it is a common term for a cleaning cloth. Chamois is less common but still widely recognized in Europe and other parts of the world.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between shammy and chamois?
Both shammy and chamois are relatively informal terms and can be used in casual conversation or writing. However, chamois may be considered slightly more formal due to its association with high-quality leather products.
