tweedles

Tweedles is a term that can refer to several things, most notably fictional characters and a type of knitted fabric.

In literature, the most famous "Tweedles" are Tweedledee and Tweedledum. These characters are depicted as identical, rotund brothers who appear in Lewis Carroll's 1871 novel "Through the Looking-Glass, and What Alice Found There." They are known for their nonsensical conversations, their love of fighting, and their distinctive appearances. Their names are often used metaphorically to describe two people who are virtually indistinguishable from each other.

Beyond literature, "tweedle" can also describe a type of knitted or woven fabric. While not as commonly known as traditional tweed, this term may refer to a loosely knitted material with a fuzzy or napped surface, often made from wool or wool blends. The texture can be somewhat irregular, giving it a rustic appearance. The exact definition can vary, but it generally implies a soft, often textured fabric.

The origin of the word "tweedle" itself is somewhat obscure, but it is believed to have onomatopoeic roots, possibly mimicking a chirping or twittering sound. This may relate to the playful or nonsensical nature of the literary characters or the soft, indistinct texture of the fabric.