Definition

Noun: 1. A Brazilian palm tree: A type of palm tree (Attalea funifera) native to Brazil, known for its strong, durable fibers. 2. A source of piassava fiber: The tree is cultivated for the coarse, stiff fibers obtained from its leaf stalks, which are used in making various products.

Usage Examples

• The pissaba palm is an important economic plant in certain regions of Brazil.
• Brushes and brooms are often made from the tough fibers of the pissaba palm.
• The rope, woven from pissaba palm fiber, was remarkably resistant to saltwater.

Advanced Usage

• The term is often used in botanical, agricultural, and commercial contexts related to natural fibers and sustainable materials.
• It can be referenced in discussions about traditional crafts and non-timber forest products.

Variants and Related Words

• Piassava palm: An alternative spelling for the same tree and fiber.
• Piassava (noun): The coarse, stiff fiber itself, derived from the leaf stalks of the pissaba palm or similar palms.
  • The piassava was bundled for export.

Synonyms

• Attalea funifera (Scientific name)
• Bahia piassava palm
• Piassava palm

Notes on Meaning

• The primary meaning refers to the specific palm tree species.
• By extension, it commonly refers to the tree as the source of a commercially valuable fiber. The fiber itself is more precisely called "piassava."

Noun

1. Brazilian palm yielding fibers used in making ropes, mats, and brushes