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 textiles
2 : thread, yarn, or fabric made from silk filaments
3 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 c plural : the colored cap and blouse of a jockey or harness horse driver made in the registered racing color of the employing stable
4 a : a filament resembling silk; especially : one produced by a spider b : silky material <milkweed silk>; especially : the styles of an ear of Indian corn
5 : parachute

— silk·like \-ˌlīk\ adjective