herringbone

[ her-ing-bohn ]
/ ˈhɛr ɪŋˌboʊn /

noun

a pattern consisting of adjoining vertical rows of slanting lines, any two contiguous lines forming either a V or an inverted V, used in masonry, textiles, embroidery, etc.
Textiles.
  1. Also called chevron, chevron weave, herringbone weave. a type of twill weave having this pattern.
  2. a fabric constructed with this weave.
  3. a garment made from such a fabric, especially a suit.
Skiing. a method of going up a slope in which a skier sets the skis in a form resembling a V, and, placing weight on the inside edges, advances the skis by turns using the poles from behind for push and support.

adjective

having or resembling herringbone: herringbone tweed.

Origin of herringbone

First recorded in 1645–55; herring + bone

British Dictionary definitions for herring bone weave

herringbone
/ (ˈhɛrɪŋˌbəʊn) /

noun

  1. a pattern used in textiles, brickwork, etc, consisting of two or more rows of short parallel strokes slanting in alternate directions to form a series of parallel Vs or zigzags
  2. (as modifier)a herringbone jacket; a herringbone pattern of very long, narrow bricks
skiing a method of ascending a slope by walking with the skis pointing outwards and one's weight on the inside edges

verb

to decorate (textiles, brickwork, etc) with herringbone
(intr) skiing to ascend a slope in herringbone fashion