dobby


dob·by

D0312900 (dŏb′ē)n. pl. dob·bies 1. A mechanical part in a loom that controls the harnesses so as to permit weaving of small geometric figures.2. a. A small geometric figure woven into fabric.b. A fabric with such figures.
[Perhaps from Dobbie, diminutive of Dob, alteration of Rob, nickname for Robert.]

dobby

(ˈdɒbɪ) n, pl -bies (Textiles) an attachment to a loom, used in weaving small figures[C17: perhaps from Dobby, pet form of Robert]

dob•by

(ˈdɒb i)

n., pl. -bies. 1. an attachment on a loom, used in weaving small patterns. 2. Also called dob′by weave`. a small geometric or floral pattern produced by this attachment. 3. a fabric having such a pattern. [1685–95; of uncertain orig.]