rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryroanSoft binding leather
noun

roan

Soft, flexible leather used for bookbinding.

The old book was bound in roan.

Etymology
RouenProbable sourceFrenchthe French city-name

Probably from Rouen, a proposed source of the leather-name. The connection is uncertain and separate from the coat-color word.

More examples

  • The binder used roan for an inexpensive leather cover.
  • The roan had worn thin along the spine.
  • A scrap of roan remained on the workbench.

Forms

roan

Similar words

leather
Leather is general; roan is a type of prepared sheepskin leather.
morocco
Morocco traditionally uses goatskin; roan commonly uses sheepskin as a less costly leather.