Definition of "prunella" [prunella]

• A strong heavy fabric of worsted twill, used chiefly for shoe uppers, clerical robes, and academic gowns. (noun)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

• "There is a wildflower that has yet to bloom called prunella in this mix also."
• "We had to get out in the gloom and mud, and Aunt Maria looked almost pathetic in her elastic side "prunella" boots, edged with fur, white silk stockings and red quilted silk petticoat held up very high."
• "As my father had a store, I began to wear "prunella" shoes very early."