Main Entry:

¹silk

Pronunciation:

\ˈsilk\

Function:

noun

Usage:

often attributive

Etymology:

Middle English, from Old English seolc, sioluc, probably ultimately from Greek sērikos silken — more at sericeous

Date:

before 12th century

1: a fine continuous protein fiber produced by various insect larvae usually for cocoons ; especially : a lustrous tough elastic fiber produced by silkworms and used for textiles2: thread, yarn, or fabric made from silk filaments3 a: a garment of silk b (1): a distinctive silk gown worn by a King's or Queen's Counsel (2): a King's or Queen's Counsel cplural : the colored cap and blouse of a jockey or harness horse driver made in the registered racing color of the employing stable4 a: a filament resembling silk ; especially : one produced by a spider b: silky material <milkweed silk> ; especially : the styles of an ear of Indian corn5: parachute

— silk·like \-ˌlīk\ adjective