Haberdasher
Noun
- (North American) A dealer in men’s clothing.
- (British) A dealer in small items used in sewing.
Example Sentences
“He stopped at the haberdasher before his vacation to replenish his summer wardrobe.”
“The tailor and the haberdasher were located next door to each other, making for a perfect business arrangement.”
“My grandfather worked at the same haberdasher for 45 years before he retired.”
Word Origin
Anglo-Norman, early 17th century
Why this word?
“Haberdasher” is a North American word for a clothier that specializes in men’s items. If you don’t fancy “haberdasher,” try “boutique,” “salon,” “emporium,” “showroom,” or “repository.” However, a British haberdasher is more likely to sell sewing accessories than men’s clothing. The word likely came from the Anglo-Norman word “hapteras,” a type of fabric, which makes sense for both types of haberdasher.