featherbone

[ feth-er-bohn ]

noun

1. a substitute for whalebone, made from the quills of domestic fowls.

Word History and Origins

Origin of featherbone¹

An Americanism dating back to 1885–90; feather + bone

Example Sentences

It is used to finish flannel seams and hems, fasten down linings, opened seams, and canvas facings and featherbone, in millinery—in fact, this stitch is one of the most useful in sewing.

From Project Gutenberg

Hooks, eyes, buttons, tape, linings, featherbone and shields are requisites not to be forgotten.

From Project Gutenberg

So Featherbone shipped him over here, in charge of a family solicitor who hunted out this sequestered spot, bought a couple of thousand acres and built this hut.

From Project Gutenberg

Algy is the fourth son of old Lord Featherbone, and got into a disgraceful mess in London some years ago.

From Project Gutenberg