Fabric vs. Cloth: What's the Difference?
Edited by Sawaira Riaz || By Sumera Saeed || Updated on November 8, 2023
"Fabric" is a material made by weaving or knitting threads, while "cloth" refers to a piece of fabric used for a specific purpose.
Key Differences
Fabric is the generic term used for any textile material produced through weaving, knitting, spreading, crocheting, or bonding that may be used in the production of further goods. Cloth, on the other hand, is a finished piece of fabric that can be used directly for purposes such as clothing, covering, or cleaning.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 08, 2023
When discussing fabric, it typically refers to the raw material in bulk used for making various products. Cloth, however, is more often referred to in the context of a finished product like a tablecloth, a piece of clothing, or other items made from fabrics.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 08, 2023
The term fabric encompasses a wide variety of materials including natural fibers like cotton and wool, synthetic fibers like polyester and nylon, and specialty fibers like silk and satin. Cloth is usually a piece of fabric that has been cut and tailored for a specific use, such as sheets or clothing.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 08, 2023
In the industry, fabric might be sold by the yard or meter, measured in larger quantities, and intended for further manufacture. Cloth is often pre-cut and sized for immediate use, and it might come in predefined shapes like cloths for cleaning or a painter's drop cloth.
Sara Rehman
Nov 08, 2023
The word fabric can also metaphorically refer to the basic structure of anything, such as the "fabric of society," whereas cloth is typically not used in a metaphorical sense and retains a more tangible association with the fabric material itself.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 08, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT
Comparison Chart
Definition
Material produced by weaving or knitting.
A finished piece of fabric for specific use.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 08, 2023
Usage
Used to create various textile products.
Used directly for clothing, covering, etc.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 08, 2023
Types
Many types, including natural and synthetic.
Typically refers to types used for final products.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 08, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT
Fabric and Cloth Definitions
Fabric
A material made by weaving, knitting, or bonding fibers together.
She chose a soft fabric for her wedding dress.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 08, 2023
Cloth
A woven or felted fabric made from wool, cotton, or a similar fiber.
The cloth for the suit was carefully selected.
Harlon Moss
Nov 08, 2023
Fabric
A textile with a particular texture and quality.
The fabric used in the sofa cover is highly durable.
Janet White
Nov 08, 2023
Cloth
A term for fabrics used in the making of clothes.
He sells cloth by the yard at the market.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 08, 2023
Fabric
The walls, floors, and roofs of a building.
The historic building's fabric has been meticulously restored.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 08, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT
Cloth
A piece of fabric, especially one that has been pre-cut.
She wiped the table with a damp cloth.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 08, 2023
Fabric
The underlying structure of anything.
The new law would alter the fabric of social care.
Janet White
Nov 08, 2023
Cloth
A piece of fabric used for a particular purpose, such as cleaning.
I need a cloth to clean the windows.
Sara Rehman
Nov 08, 2023
Fabric
The type of material of which something is made.
The tent's fabric was waterproof and lightweight.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 08, 2023
Cloth
An essential part of a particular activity, often religious.
The altar was covered with a ceremonial cloth.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 08, 2023
Cloth
Fabric or material formed by weaving, knitting, pressing, or felting natural or synthetic fibers.
Sumera Saeed
Dec 28, 2022
Cloth
A piece of fabric or material used for a specific purpose, as a tablecloth.
Sumera Saeed
Dec 28, 2022
Fabric
A complex underlying structure
Destroyed the very fabric of the ancient abbey during wartime bombing.
Needs to protect the fabric of civilized society.
Sumera Saeed
Dec 28, 2022
FAQs
Is cloth always made from woven materials?
Most often, yes, but it can also be knit or felted.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 08, 2023
Can fabric be sold as cloth?
Fabric is often made into cloth for various uses.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 08, 2023
Is fabric only used for making clothes?
No, fabric is used for a wide range of products, not just clothes.
Sara Rehman
Nov 08, 2023
Do fabric types vary more than cloth types?
Yes, fabric types are numerous, while cloth refers to specific uses.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 08, 2023
Are fabric and cloth interchangeable terms?
They can be, but fabric usually refers to the material, and cloth to the end product.
Sara Rehman
Nov 08, 2023
Is denim a fabric or a cloth?
Denim is a type of fabric that can be made into cloth items like jeans.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 08, 2023
Can fabric be a non-woven material?
Yes, there are non-woven fabrics like felt.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 08, 2023
Are fabric measurements larger than cloth?
Fabric is typically measured in larger quantities than cloth.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 08, 2023
Is cloth used for non-clothing purposes?
Yes, like cleaning rags or tablecloths.
Janet White
Nov 08, 2023
Are all fabrics suitable for making cloth?
Not all; some are designed for specific applications.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 08, 2023
Can the term fabric refer to a texture?
Yes, it can describe the texture and feel of a textile.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 08, 2023
Is cloth used in industrial applications?
Yes, cloth is used in various industrial products.
Sara Rehman
Nov 08, 2023
Can cloth come from synthetic fabrics?
Yes, cloth can be made from both natural and synthetic fabrics.
Sara Rehman
Nov 08, 2023
Do the terms fabric and cloth have the same origin?
Both have roots in Latin but have evolved differently.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 08, 2023
Is fabric more expensive than cloth?
The price can vary greatly depending on the type and quality.
Sara Rehman
Nov 08, 2023
Does fabric denote a certain quality?
It can imply the type and quality of the textile.
Harlon Moss
Nov 08, 2023
Is cloth typically cut from fabric?
Yes, cloth is often cut and then used for specific purposes.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 08, 2023
Is fabric or cloth more commonly used in fashion terminology?
Fabric is more common when discussing fashion design and materials.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 08, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sumera SaeedSumera is an experienced content writer and editor with a niche in comparative analysis. At Diffeence Wiki, she crafts clear and unbiased comparisons to guide readers in making informed decisions. With a dedication to thorough research and quality, Sumera's work stands out in the digital realm. Off the clock, she enjoys reading and exploring diverse cultures.
Edited by
Sawaira RiazSawaira is a dedicated content editor at difference.wiki, where she meticulously refines articles to ensure clarity and accuracy. With a keen eye for detail, she upholds the site's commitment to delivering insightful and precise content.
