raffia

noun

raf·​fia ˈra-fē-ə 

: 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

In canvas, raffia, or even terry cloth, the striped styles of the season add a spirited touch to any look. — Minty Mellon, Vogue, 21 July 2026

His work uses Japanese cotton or Italian silk, along with Burkinabé faso dan fani, Ghanaian kente, or Cameroonian raffia. — Jenny Vaughan, semafor.com, 20 July 2026

Take cues from the look above and pair them with a short-sleeve polo, metallic strappy sandals, and a raffia bag for an easygoing weekend or vacation outing. — Kelsey Stewart, Glamour, 18 July 2026

Antiques made of straw, raffia, and bamboo contrast with modern steel elements like the Boffi kitchen island. — Francesca Longoni, Architectural Digest, 18 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

Malagasy rafia

First Known Use

1850, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing raffia

• raffia palm

Kids Definition

raffia

noun

raf·​fia ˈraf-ē-ə 

: fiber from a palm of Madagascar and Africa used as a cord for weaving various articles (as baskets or hats) and for tying