Definition of the word denim

The word "denim" originated in the French city of Nîmes (pronounced as "neem") in the late 1800s. In French, the fabric was called "serge de Nîmes," which translates to "Nîmes woolen serge." This type of cotton twill fabric, which was sturdy, durable, and blue-colored, was popular among working-class people in France. The fabric made its way to the United States, and in the 1870s, it was called "genism" in the Levi Strauss & Co.'s dry goods catalog. By the end of the 19th century, the spelling changed to "jeanism," and the fabric became known as "jeans." However, in the early 1900s, the U.S. Manufacturers began using the French word "denim," as it was easier to pronounce and remember, leading to the word's popularization in America. So, the term "denim" has a French origin, but its spelling and pronunciation were adapted to suit the American market.