It's called cambric 'cos it comes from Cambrai. Mind you, we don't do so well in pronouncing denim (which comes from Nimes - de Nimes). I reckon you can pronounce it anyway you want. Try it out next time you're shopping in a gentlemen's outfitters (suits you, Sir) or a trendy boutique ('ere 'ave we got any cambric shirts, Tracey?).

Les