Pique

pe-ka', a stout cotton fabric ornamented with a rib, or small pattern in relief. The name pique is from a French word meaning to prick, and was given from a resemblance in the pattern of this fabric to quilting, which the French call pique, pricked. As in a quilted fabric the portions between the stiches stand up, so the pattern in woven pique stands up; which effect is produced by an extra set of warp threads which are somewhat slacker than the main set. Pique is used for women's and children's suits and men's waistcoats. Fleece-lined pique is finished on the back with a nap. Printed pique is a light weight, printed in colors. Marseilles is similar in weave to pique, but is coarser and heavier. It is finished with considerable starch.