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Wadding Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿงต
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wadding

[หˆwษ’d.ษชล‹ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

material use

Wadding refers to a soft material used for padding or stuffing. It's often made from cotton, polyester, or other synthetic fibers. Commonly, it is used in quilting, sewing, and in the manufacture of bedding and upholstery. Additionally, in firearms, wadding is the material placed between the powder and the projectile in a shotgun shell.

Synonyms

filling, padding, stuffing.

Examples of usage

  • The quilt was made using layers of wadding for extra warmth.
  • She used wadding to stuff the cushions on the sofa.
  • The gunsmith carefully placed the wadding in the shotgun shell.
  • He bought some wadding to finish his sewing project.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Craft and Textile

  • In quilting, wadding is essential as it provides warmth and thickness, making quilts cozy.
  • Different types of wadding, like cotton or polyester, can affect how warm or heavy the final product is.
  • The choice of wadding can also influence the quilting patterns that can be used, impacting both aesthetics and utility.

Science and Engineering

  • In the field of engineering, wadding can be used as a form of insulation, helping to keep heat in or out.
  • It's also used in ammunition, where it serves to hold the gunpowder in place and prevent moisture from affecting the explosive materials.
  • The manufacturing processes for wadding have evolved, incorporating new materials and techniques to improve performance.

Cultural Practices

  • Many traditional crafts around the world use wadding in their products, such as in East Asian fabric arts for making soft toys.
  • Wadded materials are commonly used in cultural ceremonies, adding texture and visual appeal to traditional garments and artifacts.
  • Festivals may feature wadded items like dragon boats, which utilize wadding for buoyancy and decoration.

Health and Safety

  • In medical applications, wadding can be used in bandages to absorb blood and protect wounds.
  • Wadding materials are often tested for hypoallergenic properties to ensure they are safe for direct contact with skin.
  • In sports equipment, wadding is used in protective gear to prevent injuries during activities like cycling or martial arts.

Origin of 'wadding'

Main points about word origin

  • The word โ€˜waddingโ€™ comes from the Old English word โ€˜wadโ€™, meaning a covering or a padding, related to the idea of adding softness.
  • It was originally used to describe padding for items like clothing or armor, showing its protective nature.
  • Wadding has been used for centuries in crafting, from traditional quilts to modern manufacturing.

The word 'wadding' originates from the early 15th century, traceable to the Middle English term 'waddinge', derived from the Old English 'wรฆd', meaning 'clothing' or 'fabric'. Over time, the term evolved to refer not just to fabric used for clothing but also to any soft material used for padding or filling. The historical development of wadding is closely linked to advancements in textile manufacturing and changes in how materials were used in various crafts, particularly in quilting and upholstery work. In the context of firearms, 'wadding' reflects the development of shotgun technology in the 19th century, emphasizing the practical application of this material in shooting sports. The evolution of the word reflects broader changes in society's relationship with textiles and materials in both everyday life and specialized applications.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,726, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.