Definition

Noun 1. A plant of the genus Linum: A slender, erect annual plant (Linum usitatissimum) cultivated for its seeds, which yield linseed oil, and especially for the strong, durable fibers in its stem. 2. The fiber from the flax plant: The pale, soft, and lustrous fibers extracted from the stem of the flax plant, which are spun into yarn (linen thread) and woven into linen fabric.

Usage and Examples

• The ancient Egyptians cultivated flax along the Nile River.
• Linen is a textile made from the fibers of the flax plant.
• The process of separating the flax fibers from the woody stalk is called retting.

Advanced Usage

• "To quench/smother smoking flax": An idiom meaning to discourage or suppress something that is just beginning or is very weak. It originates from a biblical reference (Isaiah 42:3).
  • The harsh criticism served only to quench the smoking flax of her creative ambition.

Variants and Related Words

• Flaxen (adjective): Having the pale yellow color of dressed flax; often used to describe hair.
  • She had long, flaxen braids.
• Flaxseed (noun): The seed of the flax plant, a source of oil and dietary fiber.
  • I add ground flaxseed to my morning smoothie.

Synonyms

• Linseed plant (for the plant, specifically when cultivated for its seeds).
• Linen fiber (for the processed fiber).

Related Phrases

• New Zealand flax: Refers to plants of the genus , which are unrelated to true flax but yield a similar fiber. This is a compound term and not a use of the target word "flax" alone.
  • Maori weavers use fiber from New Zealand flax.

Noun

1. plant of the genus Linum that is cultivated for its seeds and for the fibers of its stem
2. fiber of the flax plant that is made into thread and woven into linen fabric