cotton

[ˈkɑtn]

cotton Definition

  • 1a soft, white, downy substance that grows around the seeds of a tropical and subtropical plant
  • 2the plant that produces cotton, grown mainly in the southern United States and parts of Africa and Asia
  • 3cloth made from cotton fibers

Using cotton: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "cotton" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The shirt is made of cotton.

  • Example

    The cotton crop was damaged by the storm.

  • Example

    The cotton industry is a major source of income for many countries.

  • Example

    She prefers to wear clothes made of cotton.

cotton Synonyms and Antonyms

Phrases with cotton

  • begin to understand or realize something

    Example

    It took me a while to cotton on to what he was saying.

  • become fond of or interested in something or someone

    Example

    At first, she didn't like him, but eventually, she cottoned to him.

  • a state of prosperity or wealth

    Example

    After winning the lottery, they were in high cotton.

Origins of cotton

from Middle English 'coton', from Old French 'coton', from Arabic 'quṭn'

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Summary: cotton in Brief

Cotton [ˈkɑtn] refers to a soft, white, downy substance that grows around the seeds of a tropical and subtropical plant. It is also the name of the plant that produces cotton, grown mainly in the southern United States and parts of Africa and Asia. Cotton is used to make cloth, which is a popular material for clothing. Phrases like 'cotton on' and 'cotton to' describe understanding and fondness, respectively.

How do native speakers use this expression?