horsehair

[ hawrs-hair ]

noun

1. a hair or the hair of a horse, especially from the mane or tail.
2. a sturdy, glossy fabric woven of this hair.

adjective

1. of or relating to horsehair:

   a horsehair mattress.

horsehair

/ ˈhɔːsˌhɛə /

noun

1. 1. hair taken chiefly from the tail or mane of a horse, used in upholstery and for fabric, etc
   2. ( as modifier )

      a horsehair mattress

Other Words From

• horsehaired adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of horsehair¹

First recorded in 1275–1325, horsehair is from Middle English hors here. See horse, hair

Example Sentences

Their complex armor is laden with fur, horsehair or leather, which was hand painted to look like scuffed metal, but weigh much less.

From Los Angeles Times

Fiber reinforcement has been around since the first masons were mixing horsehair into their mud.

From Science Daily

The matured horsehair worm finally induces the host to jump into water, often to the host's ultimate demise, so it can complete its life mission and reproduce.

From Science Daily

They focused on horsehair or gordian worms, a group of parasitic animals related to nematodes.

From Science Magazine

Eco designers Vim and Omi were commissioned to make a dress for the show and chose to reflect all three issues in a striking dress made from nettles, horsehair and linen.

From BBC