chenille pronunciation

Unsure about chenille pronunciation? You're not alone. In American English, most people say shuh-NEEL, with the stress on the second syllable. Once you know how to say it, you can confidently ask for one of the softest, most touchable fabrics in the sewing room.

How to Pronounce Chenille

The word is borrowed from French, so the opening "ch" sounds like "sh," not "ch" as in "chair."

• American English: shuh-NEEL
• French: closer to shuh-NEE-yuh, with a softer ending
• Common mistake: CHEN-ill or chen-EEL

What Chenille Means

Chenille is French for "caterpillar." The name describes the fuzzy, pile-covered yarn used to weave the fabric, which looks a lot like a tiny caterpillar.

Why Sewists Love It

Chenille fabric has a plush, velvety texture and a soft sheen that catches the light. It's a popular choice for upholstery, throw pillows, cozy blankets, robes and drapery. When shopping, look at the weight and pile density, the fiber content, and how the drape suits your project.

Now that you know how to say chenille, explore our selection of chenille fabrics below and find the right one for your next project.