Cotton fabric named after Nimes, a French city. The fabric was said to be 'de Nimes', from Nimes.
The fabric is usually blue, but other colours (black being the most popular) exist. Denim is notable for its ability to withstand wearing and fraying, and is used for jeans, jackets and light protective clothing, such as overalls. Typical denim weighs about 150-250g per m².

Den"im (?), n. [Of uncertain origin.]

A coarse cotton drilling used for overalls, etc.

 

© Webster 1913.