Velcro is the trade name for a fastening device made up of tiny hooks that mesh with tiny loops. Such fasteners are used in clothing, athletic and medical equipment, and automobile and airplane interiors. Velcro is a trademark of Velcro Industries, but many people use the word to refer to any hook-and-loop fastener. The name Velcro is a combination of velvet and crochet. Crochet is the French word for hook.