B1noun2K

Leather

UK /["/ˈleðə(r)/"]/US /["/ˈleðər/"]/

Definition

material made by removing the hair or fur from animal skins and preserving the skins using special processes

In simple words: A strong material made from animal skin.

Examples

  • a **leather jacket**
  • The soles are made of leather.
  • a leather-bound book
  • I'm looking for a pair of boots in dark brown leather.
  • Each volume is bound in genuine leather.
  • The leather has been treated with wax.
  • a coat made from buffalo leather
  • a cracked leather belt
  • a biker in black leathers
  • to ride hell for leather

Usage notes

Commonly used when discussing clothing, furniture, or accessories. It is appropriate in both casual and formal contexts, but avoid using it when referring to synthetic alternatives.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of a 'leather' jacket, smooth and stylish on a bike ride.

Collocations

  • thick
  • thin
  • soft
  • tan
  • treat
  • polish
  • crack
  • belt
  • boots
  • chaps
  • in leather
  • in leathers
  • thick
  • thin
  • soft
  • tan
  • treat
  • polish
  • crack
  • belt
  • boots
  • chaps
  • in leather
  • in leathers

Synonyms

  • hide
  • skin
  • fur
  • buckskin
  • chamois

Antonyms

  • synthetic
  • plastic

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'pleather', which is fake leather.
  • Using 'leathers' as a plural for multiple pieces instead of items made of leather.
  • Mispronouncing it as 'leth-er' instead of 'leather'.