rhizoverbBeta
DictionarytaffetaCrisp fabric
noun

taffeta

TAF-ih-tuh/ˈtæfɪtə/

A crisp, smooth woven fabric, usually made of silk or synthetic fibers.

The taffeta holds crisp folds on the dressmaker’s form.

A length of muted emerald taffeta draped over a plain dressmaker’s form as an unfinished formal skirt, with crisp standing folds and a broad smooth panel showing the fabric’s restrained sheen.
Etymology
taffetaPersiansilk or linen cloth

Persian taftah named silk or linen cloth and came from a verb meaning “twist, spin, weave, interlace.” The name thus points to making cloth, while its English use became associated with a particular smooth, lustrous fabric.

In context

Libranima519:21
in a robe of white taffeta embroidered with gold flowers, her hair flowing loose over her shoulders
Don Quixote - Cervantes (Illustrated Audiobook) Part 4 of 4

More examples

  • She chose crisp blue taffeta for the dress.
  • Light caught the smooth surface of the taffeta.
  • The tailor pressed the taffeta carefully before cutting it.

Forms

taffeta

Similar words

satin
Satin is noted for a glossy face; taffeta is especially crisp and holds structured folds.
twill
Twill has a diagonal weave pattern; taffeta is a smooth, crisp plain-woven fabric.