Rattan Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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rattan

[rษ™หˆtan ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

furniture material

Rattan is a type of palm vine widely used for making furniture and baskets. It is known for its flexibility, durability, and natural aesthetic appeal.

Synonyms

cane, reed, wicker.

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Word Description / Examples
rattan

Rattan refers to the material derived from the vines of tropical palms used widely in furniture making. It is strong and flexible, perfect for outdoor furniture or any furniture that needs to be lightweight and durable.

  • The new rattan chair blends perfectly with the garden decor.
  • They chose a rattan living room set for its sleek and modern look.
wicker

Wicker refers to the technique of weaving natural materials like willow, rattan, or bamboo into various items, primarily furniture. It denotes an artistry that emphasizes texture and form.

  • The wicker basket was perfect for carrying fruit from the market.
  • They bought a beautiful wicker armchair for the sunroom.
cane

Cane usually refers to the hollow stems of specific plants like bamboo or the sugarcane plant. It's commonly used for making lightweight furniture or walking sticks and often implies natural, rustic aesthetics.

  • She bought a vintage cane rocking chair for the porch.
  • The old man walked with the help of a sturdy cane.
reed

Reed refers to the tall, slender grasses that grow in wet areas. These are often used in thatching roofs, making baskets, or crafting musical instruments like reeds for woodwind instruments.

  • The craftsmen used reed to weave intricate baskets.
  • Reeds were used to thatch the roof of the traditional hut.

Examples of usage

  • The chair is made of rattan, giving it a tropical feel.
  • She weaved a beautiful basket using rattan as the material.
Context #2 | Noun

botany

Rattan is also a climbing palm plant that grows in tropical regions. It has long, slender stems that are often used for various purposes.

Synonyms

climber, palm, vine.

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Word Description / Examples
rattan

Commonly used to refer to the flexible fibers from a type of palm tree. Often used in the context of furniture and handicrafts.

  • They bought a beautiful rattan chair for the patio
  • The rattan basket was handmade by local artisans
palm

Usually refers to palm trees, which are often found in tropical climates. It can also refer to the inner part of the hand in humans.

  • They have several palm trees lining their driveway
  • He placed the small coin in the palm of her hand
climber

Generally used to denote plants that climb up structures or other plants. It can also refer to a person who climbs, particularly mountains or cliffs.

  • The garden wall is covered with climbers like ivy and bougainvillea
  • The climber reached the summit after a challenging ascent
vine

Refers to plants that grow by trailing or climbing stems. Often used in the context of grapevines and other fruit-bearing plants.

  • The grapevine in the backyard produces delicious fruit every summer
  • The vines took over the entire fence, creating a natural green wall

Examples of usage

  • The forests in Southeast Asia are abundant with rattan plants.
  • The rattan stems are harvested for their versatile uses.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In Southeast Asia, rattan is traditionally used in craftsmanship, symbolizing artisanal skill passed down through generations.
  • Communities often celebrate rattan weaving festivals, showcasing local designs and techniques.
  • Rattan furniture is not just practical; it's a vital part of home decor in many cultures, representing style and heritage.

Environmental Aspects

  • Rattan is a sustainable resource, growing quickly and helping to preserve forest biodiversity.
  • Its harvesting does not require cutting down trees, making it an eco-friendly option compared to many other woods.
  • The cultivation of rattan supports local economies while promoting forest conservation efforts.

Uses and Applications

  • Rattan is commonly used not just for furniture, but also for baskets, mats, and various home accessories.
  • Its flexibility allows it to be woven into intricate designs, which adds to its popularity in the interior design market.
  • Rattan is utilized in sports equipment, such as in some types of racquets and fishing rods, showcasing its versatility.

Commerce

  • The global market for rattan products has seen significant growth as eco-conscious consumers seek sustainable furnishings.
  • Many countries, including Indonesia and Malaysia, export rattan goods, shaping their economies.

Origin of 'rattan'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'rattan' comes from the Malay word 'rotan,' which means a type of flexible palm.
  • It has been used in traditional Asian crafts for thousands of years, emphasizing its cultural significance.
  • The name reflects the versatile nature of the plant, as it's not just used for furniture but also for weaving.

The word 'rattan' is derived from the Malay word 'rotan', which means 'cane'. Rattan has been used for centuries by indigenous peoples for various purposes such as furniture, tools, and handicrafts. Its popularity in the Western world grew during the colonial era when it became a fashionable material for furniture and home decor.


Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,907, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.