sea island cotton

noun

often capitalized S&I
: a cotton (Gossypium barbadense) with especially long silky fiber

called also sea island

Examples of sea island cotton 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.
The goods wrought through its plantation economy—indigo, rice, and later sea island cotton—made Charleston the wealthiest city in the 13 colonies. Latria Graham, Condé Nast Traveler, 30 May 2023

Word History

Etymology

Sea Islands, chain of islands off the southeastern U.S. coast

First Known Use

1805, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of sea island cotton was in 1805

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Cite this Entry

“Sea island cotton.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sea%20island%20cotton. Accessed 10 Sep. 2025.

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