Filature

/fɪˈlætʃər/ noun

Definition

The process of drawing out and twisting fibers (especially silk) into thread; also refers to a workshop or factory where this process happens.

Etymology

From French 'filature,' derived from Latin 'filum' (thread). The term specifically developed in the silk industry, where the process of unwinding silk cocoons and twisting the fibers was called filature.

Kelly Says

The filature industry literally shaped history—silk filature in Italy and France was so valuable that these countries kept the technology secret, controlling world trade for centuries and making it a lucrative business worth more than gold.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.