Other Names for Denim: Jean, Dungaree and More

Denim may be described as jean fabric, blue jean material, dungaree, or indigo-dyed cotton twill. Although these terms are often used interchangeably, they can refer to different garments, fabric constructions, or historical styles.

Jean is the most familiar alternative name, particularly when referring to clothing. Dungaree is an older term for durable cotton cloth and is still used informally for denim workwear, overalls, and jeans.

In fabric descriptions, denim may also be called cotton twill or indigo twill . Traditional denim has a diagonal weave, with indigo-dyed warp yarns on the surface and lighter weft yarns underneath.

Denim names can indicate how the material is made or treated. Raw denim is unwashed, while rigid denim contains little or no stretch. Stretch denim blends cotton with elastane, and selvedge denim is woven with finished, self-bound edges.

Other familiar descriptions include washed denim, stonewashed denim, acid-wash denim, distressed denim, and chambray. Chambray resembles lightweight denim, but it uses a plain weave rather than denim’s characteristic twill construction.

When shopping, check both the fabric composition and product fit instead of relying on the name alone. A garment labeled “jean” may contain stretch fibers, while “dungaree” can describe either denim fabric or an overall-style garment.

For more help comparing washes, silhouettes, sizing, and care, read the guide to high-waist vintage denim shorts.