noun
fiber
FY-ber/ˈfaɪbər/
A slender threadlike strand forming part of a material.
These fine flax fibers are drawn together into a thread.
Etymology
Latin fibra covered both filaments and entrails. English first used the word for internal body parts, then for threadlike structures in animals and plants; its deeper origin is uncertain.
In context
The fiber is about to run a relentless mechanical gauntlet, a progressive sequence that transitions it from tightly packed, dirty bales all the way into a perfectly twisted, continuous strand of yarn.
More examples
- A wool fiber from my sweater clings to my coat.
- Synthetic fibers make this rope strong and lightweight.
- Under a microscope, individual fibers are visible in the paper.
Forms
fiber · fibers
fibrous adjective — Made of or containing threadlike strands.