sleave

Meanings

1. 1
   verb

   archaic: to separate or spread into fine threads, strands, or filaments

   The old silk began to sleave into fine strands along the torn edge.

2. 2
   noun

   archaic: untwisted silk or floss, especially when tangled or knotted

   The embroiderer teased a loose sleave of silk away from the spool.

Of uncertain Germanic origin; compare Danish sløjfe, Swedish slejf, and German Schleife, words associated with loops or loose knots. Shakespeare's "ravell'd sleave of care" preserves the old noun for tangled or untwisted silk.

Topics

External links

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• Cambridge Dictionary
• Wiktionary