leather - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
leather Word Meanings
- A material made from animal skin.
- A type of durable fabric often used for clothing and accessories.
- A protective layer for furniture or vehicles.
leather Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
leather Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈlɛðə/
US
/ˈlɛðər/
leather Word Etymology
leather = leathe + -er (the suffix suggests a material) > Old English 'leðer' > Proto-Germanic > Latin. Imagine the strong, rich texture of leather, reminiscent of a sturdy creature's skin and the craftsmanship involved in transforming it into a garment or accessory.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I pick up a leather jacket and, with effort, move my hand along the grain. The surface shifts under my touch, and I adjust my grip to keep it steady. A small crease begins to change with the pressure, and I decide where the sleeve should rest. In that quiet moment, the texture tells me how this leather will hold up to daily life.
Real Context
Leather is a durable material made by tanning animal hides, valued for its strength, flexibility, and classic look. It covers everything from rugged boots to refined jackets, bags, and furniture, and can be finished in many ways to be smooth, textured, or supple. The word has ancient roots in Old English leðer, with a long history across Germanic languages and a craft-focused tradition of turning skin into usable goods. When learning leather-related vocabulary, note the distinction between leather as a material and leather goods as finished products, and remember that color and finish do not change the basic material identity.
Usage Reminders
- Leather is a material, not a color or fabric.
- When naming items, say leather jacket, not a leather.
- Leather goods include bags, belts, and shoes.
- Leather comes from animal hides after tanning, while the raw skin is a hide.
- Care for leather with a conditioner and keep it dry.
Common Misconceptions
- Leather is the same as fur or raw hide.
- Leather is always brown or black.
- Synthetic or faux leather is the same as real leather.
- Leather and suede are the same thing.
- Leather goods are always expensive.
Thinking Differences
Leather is treated by learners as a universal material; English speakers tend to describe products with adjectives (genuine, top-grain) and distinguish the material from finished items.
Learning Tips
- Learn common collocations: leather jacket, leather belt, leather bag.
- Differentiate leather (material) from leather goods (products).
- Know common finish terms: full-grain, top-grain, genuine leather.
- Compare leather with faux leather to describe materials.
- Care for leather with a conditioner and avoid excessive water.
- Practice product descriptions to hear how leather is described.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'leather'?
A.A type of fruit
B.A fancy dessert
C.A material made from animal hide
D.A city in Europe
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following scenarios would you find 'leather' commonly used?
A.Cooking a meal
B.Building a house
C.Making clothing and accessories
D.Playing a musical instrument
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is similar to 'leather'?
A.Wood
B.Plastic
C.Fabric
D.Glass
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which word is the opposite of 'leather'?
A.Soft
B.Smooth
C.Synthetic
D.Delicate
Step 5: Mastery
Where would you typically see 'leather' being used in real life?
A.At a sports stadium
B.At a car wash
C.In a library
D.In a shoe store
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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