raffia

[ raf-ee-uh ]

noun

1. a fiber obtained from the leaves of the raffia palm, used for tying plants and other objects and for making mats, baskets, hats, and the like.

raffia

/ ˈræfɪə /

noun

1. Also calledraffia palm a palm tree, Raphia ruffia , native to Madagascar, that has large plumelike leaves, the stalks of which yield a useful fibre
2. the fibre obtained from this plant, used for tying, weaving, etc
3. any of several related palms or the fibre obtained from them

Word History and Origins

Origin of raffia¹

1880–85; earlier rofia raffia palm, said to be < Malagasy

Word History and Origins

Origin of raffia¹

C19: from Malagasy

Example Sentences

Rabanna, ra-ban′a, n. matting made from the fibre of the raffia, in Madagascar.

From Project Gutenberg

Make a color card of silk, wool, paper or raffia showing colors that contrast.

From Project Gutenberg

Turn up the sides, fasten the corners together with raffia or cord, tying a small bow.

From Project Gutenberg

Be very careful to have the dyes strong enough, as raffia absorbs an enormous amount of coloring.

From Project Gutenberg

We receive the raffia in its natural state, but many colors may easily be had by dyeing.

From Project Gutenberg