isinglass

noun isin·glass \ ˈī-zᵊn-ˌglas , ˈī-ziŋ- \

Definition of isinglass

1 : a semitransparent whitish very pure gelatin prepared from the air bladders of fishes (such as sturgeons) and used especially as a clarifying agent and in jellies and glue

2 : mica especially when in thin transparent sheets; especially : muscovite 2

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Recent Examples of isinglass from the Web

Langton said Norwegians have a long history of woodcarving as a way to express themselves during the long winters that kept them in dark cabins, many of which did not have windows until the invention of isinglass in the 1600s.

— brian e. clark, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, "Decorah’s Vesterheim Museum tells Norwegian immigrant experience," 22 Dec. 2017
The fish were utilized for caviar, isinglass and even as fuel for steamships, according to reports.

— paul a. smith, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, "Smith: Sturgeon add spice to Lake of the Woods fishery," 14 Oct. 2017

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'isinglass.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Origin and Etymology of isinglass

probably by folk etymology from obsolete Dutch huizenblas, from Middle Dutch huusblase, from huus sturgeon + blase bladder

NEW! Time Traveler

First Known Use: 1535

in the meaning defined at sense 1

See Words from the same year

Other Mineralogy Terms

agate, host, inclusion, matrix, streak

Medical Dictionary

isinglass

noun isin·glass \ ˈīz-ᵊn-ˌglas , ˈī-ziŋ- \

medical Definition of isinglass

1 : a semitransparent whitish very pure gelatin prepared from the air bladders of fishes (as sturgeons) and used especially as a clarifying agent and in jellies and glue — called also ichthyocolla

2 : mica