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Ramie Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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ramie

[หˆrรฆmi ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

textile material

Ramie is a flowering plant in the nettle family, known for its strong, durable fibers. It is traditionally used in textile production, often woven into fabrics that are more resistant to wrinkles and mildew. Ramie fibers have a lustrous appearance, making them popular for clothing and other textiles. They are often blended with other fibers to enhance the strength and texture of the final product.

Synonyms

Chinese grass, Chinese silk, ramie fiber.

Examples of usage

  • The dress was made from a blend of cotton and ramie.
  • Ramie fabric is ideal for summer clothing due to its breathability.
  • She chose ramie for her upholstery project for its durability.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Uses

  • Ancient Egyptians used ramie to make linen-like fabric for clothing and burial wraps.
  • In the 19th century, ramie became popular in Europe for its strength and resistance to mold and mildew.

Industrial Importance

  • Ramie is often blended with other fibers like cotton because it enhances the fabric's durability.
  • It is used in making fabrics for sails, fishing nets, and industrial filters due to its impressive tensile strength.

Cultural Significance

  • In some Asian cultures, ramie is used in traditional garments, demonstrating the importance of plant fibers in local textiles.
  • The cultivation of ramie supports local economies, especially in rural areas where the plant is grown and harvested.

Environmental Impact

  • Ramie is considered environmentally friendly since it requires less water and pesticides compared to cotton.
  • The plant is known to improve soil quality, making it beneficial for crop rotation practices.

Origin of 'ramie'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'ramie' comes from the Chinese word 'rร mว', signifying the plant's origins in Asia.
  • Historically, ramie has been known for over 6,000 years, showcasing its long-standing use in textile production.

Ramie comes from the Chinese word 'rรจmว', which means 'to be soft'. Its cultivation dates back to ancient China, where it was first used over 6,000 years ago. The plant was highly valued for its fibers, which are exceptionally strong and resistant to deterioration from insects and mildew. Historically, ramie was used to make clothing for the Chinese nobility, and as trade routes expanded, its use spread to other cultures. In the 19th century, ramie production increased significantly, especially in Europe and the Americas. Today, it is still cultivated primarily in China, Taiwan, and Thailand, where it is processed for various industrial applications. Despite competition from synthetic fibers, ramie remains popular for its natural and sustainable properties.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,565 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.