1. A generic term describing a cloth woven on a dobby loom, with a geometric pattern having a centre dot resembling a bird's eye. Originally birdseye was made of cotton and used as a diaper cloth because of its absorbent qualities, but now the weave is made from a variety of fibres or fibre blends for many different end uses. 2. A speckled effect on the back of a knit fabric resulting from the use of different colours on the face design.