Tannery: meaning, definitions and examples
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tannery
[ˈtænəri ]
Definition
leather production
A tannery is a facility where animal hides are processed into leather. This process, known as tanning, involves treating the hides with various chemicals, including tannins, to preserve them and make them suitable for use in products like shoes, bags, and furniture. Tannery operations can vary in scale, from small artisanal workshops to large industrial plants. The environmental impact of tanneries is significant due to the chemicals used and waste produced, leading to strict regulations in many regions.
Synonyms
hide processing facility, leather factory, leather workshop.
Examples of usage
- The local tannery produces high-quality leather.
- Many tanneries are looking for more sustainable practices.
- Visiting the tannery gave me insight into leather making.
- The tannery employs numerous skilled workers in the area.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The term 'tannery' comes from the Old French word 'taner,' which means to tan hides.
- The Latin word 'tannare' also contributed to the name, meaning 'to make leather.'
- Historically, the process of tanning hides has been practiced for thousands of years, providing a durable material for clothing and goods.
History
- Ancient Egyptians developed early tanning techniques that involved soaking animal skins in oils and fats.
- In medieval Europe, tanneries were often located near rivers for easy access to water, an essential component of the tanning process.
- During the Industrial Revolution, advancements in technology allowed for mass production and more efficient methods of tanning hides.
Environmental Impact
- Tanneries can produce significant amounts of waste, including chemicals that are harmful if not disposed of properly.
- Many modern tanneries are adopting environmentally friendly practices to minimize pollution and reduce their carbon footprint.
- The shift towards sustainable leather alternatives is gaining popularity, leading to innovations like lab-grown leather.
Cultural Significance
- Leather products made in tanneries, such as traditional artisan goods, hold cultural importance in many societies around the world.
- Different cultures have unique tanning methods and styles of leatherwork, resulting in varied textures and patterns.
- In some regions, the craftsmanship of leather tanning and products is passed down through generations, maintaining local heritage.
Technology
- Modern tanneries use advanced machinery for processes such as drying, dyeing, and finishing leather effectively.
- The introduction of computer-controlled equipment has improved the consistency and quality of leather processing.
- Technological developments have led to faster production times while maintaining the quality of the final product.
Translations
Translations of the word "tannery" in other languages:
🇵🇹 curtume
🇮🇳 चर्मशोधन फैक्ट्री
🇩🇪 Gerberei
🇮🇩 pabrik kulit
🇺🇦 шкіряна фабрика
🇵🇱 garbarnia
🇯🇵 なめし工場
🇫🇷 tannerie
🇪🇸 curtiduría
🇹🇷 deri fabrikası
🇰🇷 가죽 공장
🇸🇦 مصنع جلود
🇨🇿 továrna na kůži
🇸🇰 kožiarstvo
🇨🇳 皮革厂
🇸🇮 klavnica
🇮🇸 leðjaverksmiðja
🇰🇿 тері зауыты
🇬🇪 კანი საწარმო
🇦🇿 dəri fabriki
🇲🇽 curtiduría