flax

noun

ˈflaks 

often attributive

1

: any of a genus (Linum of the family Linaceae, the flax family) of herbs

especially : a slender erect annual (L. usitatissimum) with blue flowers commonly cultivated for its bast fiber and seed

2

: the fiber of the flax plant especially when prepared for spinning

3

: any of several plants resembling flax

flaxy

ˈflak-sē 

adjective

Examples of flax in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Made in Belgium, this is a linen throw made by Libeco, a company that got its start in 1858 milling flax for textiles, though the art of crafting high-quality Belgian textiles goes back much farther—into the 13th and 14th centuries. —Julia Harrison, Architectural Digest, 4 May 2026

The pure European flax linen feels as light as air, and the dress even has pockets. —Tanya Sharma, PEOPLE, 17 Apr. 2026

These best-selling Quince European Linen Shorts are made from 100-percent flax linen and feature four pockets for storage. —Katie Jackson, Travel + Leisure, 16 Apr. 2026

Berries contribute fiber and antioxidants, while nuts or seeds (like chia, ground flax, or hemp) provide healthy fats, fiber, and extra protein for a well-rounded breakfast. —Lauren Panoff, Verywell Health, 14 Apr. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Old English fleax; akin to Old High German flahs flax, Latin plectere to braid — more at ply

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for flax

• axe
• backs
• blacks
• cracks
• fax
• hacks
• jacks
• knacks
• lacks
• lakhs
• lax
• macs

Kids Definition

flax

noun

ˈflaks 

: a slender plant with blue flowers that is grown for its fiber from which linen is made and for its seed from which oil and livestock feed are obtained

also : its fiber