The name "Gulbadan" literally translates from Persian as "rose body" or "rose-like body," which is indicative of the fabric's perceived beauty and its frequent incorporation of floral motifs. While the term is shared with Gulbadan Begum, a prominent Mughal princess and historian, in this context it specifically denotes a textile.
Gulbadan fabric was typically a type of brocade or a similarly woven silk, known for its smooth texture, vibrant colors, and detailed designs, often featuring stylized botanical elements. It was widely used for the creation of opulent garments for royalty and the elite, as well as for luxurious furnishings, tent linings, and other decorative purposes within affluent households and courts of the period. Its production involved skilled weavers who employed complex techniques to achieve its distinctive appearance.