raffia

noun

raf·​fia ˈra-fē-ə How to pronounce raffia (audio)
: the fiber of the raffia palm used especially as cord for tying and weaving

Examples of raffia in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
All that’s left to do is accessorize with The Row’s sporty shades and Alex Mill’s raffia handbag. Laura Jackson, Vogue, 7 May 2026 Some create mixed-medium works that include it as one of several; Simone Leigh’s second-priciest work at auction, Las Meninas II (2019), incorporates ceramics along with terracotta, steel, and raffia. Brian Boucher, ARTnews.com, 6 May 2026 This stylish one combines faux leather with textured raffia for a subtle, elevated contrast. Samantha Leal, Travel + Leisure, 30 Apr. 2026 The design highlights organic shapes, stone, and wood as well as raffia and marquetry. Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 23 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for raffia

Word History

Etymology

Malagasy rafia

First Known Use

1850, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of raffia was in 1850

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Cite this Entry

“Raffia.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/raffia. Accessed 10 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

raffia

noun
raf·​fia ˈraf-ē-ə How to pronounce raffia (audio)
: fiber from a palm of Madagascar and Africa used as a cord for weaving various articles (as baskets or hats) and for tying
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