Astrachan

/ˈæstrəkæn/ noun

Definition

A type of fur with a tightly curled surface, originally from the region of Astrakhan in Russia, or fabric made to resemble this fur.

Etymology

Named after Astrakhan, a Russian city on the Caspian Sea, where this distinctive fur from Astrakhan sheep or lambs was historically produced and traded.

Kelly Says

Astrachan fur became so fashionable in 19th-century Europe that the city's name became the word for the fabric itself—a perfect example of how geography shapes fashion vocabulary!

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