Sackcloth

usgb/ˈsækklɔːθ/
noun

A rough fabric usually made from goats hair, used in the past for making bags and clothes.

The poor man could only afford to wear clothes of sackcloth.
Visual representation of "sackcloth" - a rough fabric usually made from goats hair, used in the past for making bags and clothes

Often appears as...

  • wear sackcloth
  • sackcloth and ashes

Usage tips

Historical

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "sackcloth"
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Historic Usage

Originally, sackcloth was a common material for everyday goods but is now outdated.

Illustration for Historic Usage
Museums might display sackcloth to illustrate historical lifestyles.
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Figurative Speech

Sackcloth may be used metaphorically to represent poverty or simplicity in literature.

Illustration for Figurative Speech
He lived a sackcloth kind of life, shunning all luxuries.
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Literal Meaning

The term isn't widely used today except when referencing historical clothing or objects.

Illustration for Literal Meaning
The artisan specializes in recreating sackcloth garments.
Visual representation of the word "Sackcloth"

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