watap

[ wuh-tahp, wa- ]

noun

1. a thread made by North American Indians from the divided roots of certain conifers and used in weaving and sewing.

watap

/ wɑː-; wæˈtɑːp /

noun

1. a stringy thread made by North American Indians from the roots of various conifers and used for weaving and sewing

Word History and Origins

Origin of watap¹

First recorded in 1800–05; from Canadian French watap, from an Algonquian language, e.g., Ojibwe wadab or Narragansett wattap “tree root”

Word History and Origins

Origin of watap¹

C18: from Canadian French, from Cree watapiy

Example Sentences

Should this be impossible, look well to the watap, or roots, used in the sewing, that they are not frayed or burst.

From Project Gutenberg

Thus placed, they were all firmly lashed with strong cords of watap, by means of holes pierced in the bottom plank.

From Project Gutenberg

Of course it took Norman a considerable time to set all the ribs in their proper places, and fasten them securely; but he was ably assisted by François, who waited upon him with much diligence, handing him now the awl, and then the watap, whenever he required them.

From Project Gutenberg

These threads are as strong as the best cords of hemp, and are known among the Indians by the name of “watap.”

From Project Gutenberg

In a country, therefore, where hemp and flax cannot be readily procured, the “watap” is of great value.

From Project Gutenberg