Byssus
WordNet
noun
(1) Tuft of strong filaments by which e.g. a mussel makes itself fast to a fixed surface
WiktionaryText
Etymology
From < < < , bus.
Noun
- An exceptionally fine and valuable fibre or cloth of ancient times. Originally used for fine flax and linens, its use was later extended to fine cottons, silks, and sea silk.
- The long fine silky filaments excreted by several mollusks (particularly Pinna nobilis) by which they attach themselves to the sea bed, from which sea silk is manufactured.
- The stipe or stem of some fungi which are particularly thin and thread-like.
Related terms
- byssaceous
- byssal
- byssiferous
- byssine
- byssinosis
- byssoid
- byssogenous
- byssolite