[Vocabulary] What's the opposite of "soft" when we talk about fabric?

[naweewra]

Hello,

What's the opposite of "soft" when you talk about fabric? I can only think of one: coarse. But there must be a better word? Can we use "hard" here too?

This towel feels softer than the other one. That one is much (coarser/harder).

Thank you.

Nawee

 

[JMurray]

not a teacher

"…opposite of soft fabric…"

In terms of the texture of the fabric, I think of "coarse" and "rough", perhaps "harsh".
If by "soft" you mean it's very pliant, then "stiff fabric/material" is a common term.

A cushion might be "soft" or "hard", but it's unlikely the fabric it's made of would be called "hard".

 

[probus]

Stiff?

 

[emsr2d2]

If talking about towels, I would probably use 'rough'.

 

[Rover_KE]

If talking about a hair shirt: scratchy.