Definition

Noun: 1. A karakul lamb: A type of young sheep from Central Asia, specifically of the karakul breed, known for its distinctive curly fleece. 2. The fur of a karakul lamb: The pelt or skin of this lamb, processed with the wool attached, characterized by its tight, glossy curls. It is a luxury material used in fashion.

Usage Examples

• Noun (referring to the animal):
  • The Persian lamb is bred primarily for its unique fleece.
• Noun (referring to the fur material):
  • Her elegant coat was made from Persian lamb.
  • The vintage hat was trimmed with Persian lamb.

Advanced Usage

• As a modifier: The term is often used attributively to describe items made from this fur.
  • She wore a Persian lamb collar.
  • The auction featured a Persian lamb stole.

Variants and Related Words

• Karakul: The breed name for the sheep from which Persian lamb fur comes. "Persian lamb" and "karakul" are often used interchangeably, though "karakul" can also refer to the adult sheep's fur, which has a different texture.
• Astrakhan: A closely related term for the curly fleece of karakul lambs; sometimes used synonymously with Persian lamb, though "astrakhan" can also refer to a wool fabric that mimics this fur's curl pattern.
• Broadtail: The fur from a karakul lamb that was stillborn or premature, which is flat and silky rather than curly, representing a different type within the same breed.

Synonyms

• Karakul lamb (for the animal)
• Karakul fur (for the material)
• Astrakhan fur (a close synonym for the material)

Notes on Meaning

• The term "Persian" is a historical commercial name; the breed originates from Central Asia (e.g., Uzbekistan, Afghanistan), not Persia (modern-day Iran). The name reflects traditional trade routes.
• It specifically denotes the pelt of the young lamb, prized for its tight, uniform curls. The fur from adult karakul sheep is called "karakul" and has a looser, flatter curl.

Noun

1. a karakul lamb
2. the fur of a karakul lamb