Lisle/laɪl/ Definition 1 of 1Pro Tip 1/3Durability Focus Lisle is known for strength and durability, often used in hosiery and gloves. The lisle socks lasted much longer than ordinary cotton ones. Pro Tip 2/3Smooth Texture Lisle refers to cotton with a smooth finish, ideal for comfort in clothing. She preferred lisle sheets for their smoothness. Pro Tip 3/3Technical Term Lisle is a technical term; use it when discussing textiles or fabric properties. The tailor recommended lisle thread for the intricate embroidery.