Pronunciation

/kɒtən/

Definitions

Noun

1. Cotton (noun): A soft, fluffy, cellulose fiber that grows in the seeds of plants in the Malvaceae family, primarily from the genus Gossypium. It is widely used for textiles, clothing, and various industrial applications.
2. Cottonwood (noun): A type of deciduous tree (genus Populus), characterized by its long, soft fibers and often used for lumber.

Verb

• Not a common verb; cotton can be used metaphorically to mean “to adhere” or “to gather,” but not as a primary action verb.

Adjective

• Cottony (adjective): Having a soft, light, and fluffy texture resembling cotton.

Adverb

• Not applicable.

Phrases

• “Made of cotton” refers to a material composition.
• “Cotton candy” is a sweet, fluffy treat made from sugar and water.
• “Cottonseed oil” is extracted from cotton seeds.

Example Sentences

• Noun: “The dress was made of 100% cotton, which felt very comfortable.”
• Metaphorical usage: “The ideas stuck in his mind like cotton.”

Synonyms

• (Noun) Flax, hemp, linen, sisal
• (Adjective) Soft, downy, fluffy

Note: As a verb, cotton is not typically used as a standalone term in standard English, but it can be found in certain regional dialects or idiomatic expressions. The most common verb forms for greeting are “to greet” or “to say hello.”