noun

Velcro

VEHLK-roh

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Velcro (noun) means a fastening system made of two fabric strips — one covered in tiny hooks, the other in tiny loops — that grip together when pressed and pull apart easily. Example: “The kids' shoes fasten with Velcro instead of laces.”

noun

A fastening system made of two fabric strips — one covered in tiny hooks, the other in tiny loops — that grip together when pressed and pull apart easily.

"The kids' shoes fasten with Velcro instead of laces."

"She used a strip of Velcro to hang the picture without nails."

verb

To attach something using Velcro.

"He velcroed the phone mount to the dashboard."

How to use Velcro

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishThe classic hook-and-loop fastener brand name, now used generically for any similar fastening strip.

Common mistake

Technically a trademark, but almost everyone uses "Velcro" generically for any hook-and-loop fastener, similar to how "hoover" is used for vacuum cleaners in the UK.

Common pairings

a strip of Velcro Velcro straps Velcro fastening

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

Word forms

Third person singular: Velcros
Past tense: Velcroed

Test yourself on “Velcro” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The kids' shoes fasten with _____ instead of laces.

Etymology

A blend of French velours ("velvet") and crochet ("hook"), reflecting the hook-and-loop design.

Origin: French

Frequently asked questions

What does “Velcro” mean?

The word “Velcro” means a fastening system made of two fabric strips — one covered in tiny hooks, the other in tiny loops — that grip together when pressed and pull apart easily. In plain terms, the classic hook-and-loop fastener brand name, now used generically for any similar fastening strip.

How do you pronounce “Velcro”?

“Velcro” is pronounced VEHLK-roh (/ˈvɛlkɹoʊ/ in IPA).

How do you use “Velcro” in a sentence?

Here is “Velcro” used in a sentence: “The kids' shoes fasten with Velcro instead of laces.”

What part of speech is “Velcro”?

Depending on how it is used, “Velcro” can be a noun and a verb.

Where does the word “Velcro” come from?

The word “Velcro” comes from French. A blend of French velours ("velvet") and crochet ("hook"), reflecting the hook-and-loop design.

How many meanings does “Velcro” have?

“Velcro” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a fastening system made of two fabric strips — one covered in tiny hooks, the other in tiny loops — that grip together when pressed and pull apart easily.