Eiderdown Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฆ
eiderdown
[หaษช.dษr.daสn ]
Definitions
bedding material
Eiderdown is a soft, warm material made from the down of the eider duck. It is known for its exceptional insulation properties and is commonly used in bedding such as duvets and pillows.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| eiderdown |
Eiderdown refers to the soft feathers from the eider duck, commonly used in luxury bedding and insulation. It is often associated with high-quality, expensive products.
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| down |
Down is a general term for the soft feathers under the tougher exterior feathers of birds. It is used in various contexts, such as bedding, jackets, and other insulating materials.
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| feathers |
Feathers are the external, more rigid plumage of birds. They can be used for decoration, in crafts, or in some cases, for stuffing items like pillows. The term is broader and less specific than 'down'.
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| quill |
Quill refers to the hard, sharp, central part of a feather. Historically, quills were used as writing instruments, and the term is now sometimes used metaphorically. Quills are not used for filling or insulating purposes.
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Examples of usage
- The eiderdown duvet kept me warm all night.
- She snuggled into the eiderdown pillow.
- I prefer eiderdown bedding for its comfort.
winter clothing
Eiderdown is also used to refer to a type of jacket or coat filled with eiderdown for extra warmth in cold weather.
Synonyms
down jacket, puffer coat, winter coat.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| eiderdown |
In addition to feathers, it can also refer to a type of quilt or comforter filled with these feathers, often synonymous with luxury and warmth.
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| puffer coat |
A casual, padded coat typically filled with down or synthetic materials, known for its puffy appearance and used in very cold weather.
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| down jacket |
A lightweight jacket filled with the soft feathers from ducks or geese, ideal for cold weather due to its excellent insulation properties.
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| winter coat |
A general term for any heavy coat designed to keep the wearer warm during winter. It can be made from various materials and have different styles.
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Examples of usage
- She wore a luxurious eiderdown coat.
- The eiderdown jacket kept him cozy in the snow.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Animals
- Eider ducks are known for their unique nesting behavior, creating nests lined with their own down feathers to keep their eggs warm.
- The eiderdown harvesting process is done sustainably; collectors retrieve feathers after ducks naturally shed them.
Bedding Industry
- Eiderdown comforters are highly sought after for their warmth and light weight, often considered a luxury bedding option.
- Due to its high cost and limited availability, eiderdown is sometimes referred to as the 'cashmere of feathers'.
Cultural Significance
- Historically, eiderdown has been used in traditional Scandinavian and Arctic cultures, reflecting the importance of using local materials in harsh climates.
- In literature, soft bedding made from eiderdown is often depicted as a symbol of comfort and wealth.
Environmental Aspects
- The eider duck is a migratory bird, which means its populations can be affected by environmental changes, impacting the future of eiderdown production.
- Sustainable harvesting practices are crucial for preserving both the duck population and the eco-system.
Origin of 'eiderdown'
Main points about word origin
- The word originates from the Icelandic word 'eiรฐi', referring to the eider duck, which is famous for its soft down feathers.
- In medieval times, the term evolved in Northern Europe to describe the down used for bedding.
The word 'eiderdown' originated in the mid 19th century, combining 'eider' (from the Old Norse 'รฆthr') referring to the eider duck, and 'down', referring to the soft feathers of the bird. Eiderdown has been traditionally used by the Inuit and other Arctic peoples for its warmth and insulation properties.