esparto

es·par·to

noun \is-ˈpär-(ˌ)tō\

plural es·par·tos

Definition of ESPARTO

1

: either of two Spanish and Algerian grasses (Stipa tenacissima and Lygeum spartum) used especially to make cordage, shoes, and paper —called also esparto grass

2

: the fiber of esparto

Origin of ESPARTO

Spanish, from Latin spartum, from Greek sparton — more at spire

First Known Use: 1845