Taylor vs. Tailor: The Correct Spellings

There are derivative forms of the word, such as "tailoring," which describes the act or profession of a tailor, and "tailored," which can describe something that is made or adapted for a particular purpose or individual.

Taylor and tailor are terms that can cause confusion. "Taylor" is typically a given name or surname, whereas "tailor" is the correct spelling for the professional who crafts and adjusts clothing. The word "tailor" derives from the Old French "tailleur," which refers to a person who cuts and shapes cloth for garments. The origin underscores the role of the tailor in fashioning clothing tailored to an individual's fit.

The term "taylor" as a misspelling does not carry this historical context and is incorrect when referring to the profession. In contrast, "tailor" has been used in the English language since the 14th century to describe this specific trade.

A handy trick to remember the spelling of "tailor" is to think of the word "trail." Both words contain "tail," and just as a trail is a specific path, tailoring is about creating a specific fit for clothing.

Incorrect: The Taylor did an excellent job with my suit.

Correct: The tailor did an excellent job with my suit.

Incorrect: He recommended a Taylor who works downtown.

Correct: He recommended a tailor who works downtown.

Incorrect: Can a Taylor adjust this jacket to fit me better?

Correct: Can a tailor adjust this jacket to fit me better?

Incorrect: I need to find a good Taylor for my wedding gown.

Correct: I need to find a good tailor for my wedding gown.

Incorrect: She went to the Taylor to get her dress fitted.

Correct: She went to the tailor to get her dress fitted.

To fit or provide (a person) with apparel.

A person whose occupation is making, repairing, or altering clothing.

To fashion or adapt to a particular taste, purpose, or need.

To adjust in amount according to a fixed scale or rate.

One that makes, repairs, and alters garments such as suits, coats, and dresses.

To make (a garment), especially to specific requirements or measurements.

To fit or provide (a person) with clothes made to that person's measurements.

To make, alter, or adapt for a particular end or purpose

To pursue the trade of a tailor.

A person who makes, repairs, or alters clothes professionally, especially suits and men's clothing.

(Australia) The bluefish (Pomatomus saltatrix).

(ambitransitive) To make, repair, or alter clothes.

(transitive) To make or adapt (something) for a specific need.

(transitive) To restrict (something) in order to meet a particular need.

One whose occupation is to cut out and make men's garments; also, one who cuts out and makes ladies' outer garments.

The mattowacca; - called also tailor herring.

The goldfish.

To practice making men's clothes; to follow the business of a tailor.

a person whose occupation is making and altering garments

make fit for a specific purpose

style and tailor in a certain fashion;

create (clothes) with cloth;

A person who makes custom clothing for clients.

A tailor can make custom suits that fit perfectly.

A skilled tailor can transform an old dress into something new.

The tailor measured him for his new suit.

The tailor worked late into the night to finish the alterations.

She's an excellent tailor known for her intricate work.

A tailor can adjust the fit of a garment to suit your body shape.

He learned the craft from a master tailor in Italy.

Finding a good tailor is essential for wardrobe maintenance.

A good tailor knows how to work with different types of fabrics.

She inherited her skills from her father, who was also a tailor.

The tailor added a unique lining to the jacket for a personal touch.

He's not just a tailor; he's an artist with fabric.

The tailor advised against shortening the dress too much.

The tailor stitched a hidden pocket inside the jacket.

She visited the tailor to have her coat sleeves shortened.

No, the correct term is "tailor." "Taylor" is typically a given name or surname.

No, when referring to making or adjusting clothing, the correct term is "tailor."

The correct term is "tailor."

The act or profession of a tailor is called "tailoring."

A trick to remember "tailor" is by thinking of the word "trail," as both contain the "tail" segment.

The word "tailor" comes from the Old French word "tailleur," referring to someone who cuts cloth for garments.

Historically, "tailor" specifically referred to someone who makes, repairs, or alters clothing. Today, while this remains the primary association, "tailor" can also metaphorically suggest customization in other fields.

"Tailored" refers to something that is made or adapted for a specific purpose or individual.

"Taylor" as a name or surname might have originated as an occupational surname for someone who was a tailor, but now it stands on its own without direct association to the profession.

Yes, because of their phonetic similarity and "Taylor" being a common name, there's occasional confusion between "taylor" and "tailor."