Cellophane

/ˈseləfeɪn/ noun

Definition

A thin, transparent material made from cellulose that is commonly used for wrapping food and other items.

Etymology

A blend of 'cellulose' and 'diaphane' (Greek for 'transparent'). It was invented in 1908 by Jacques Brandenberger, a Swiss inventor, and the name was created by combining these scientific terms.

Kelly Says

Cellophane was invented by accident—Brandenberger spilled wine on a tablecloth and wanted to make a washable coating, but instead created the world's first transparent plastic wrap! It was revolutionary because it let you see food without opening the package, which seems obvious now but was genuinely mind-blowing in 1908.

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