sea-island cotton
Definition
Noun (uncountable): A type of cotton (Gossypium barbadense) with long, silky fibers, originally grown on the Sea Islands off the coast of the southeastern United States. It is highly valued for its quality, used in fine textiles.
Usage Examples
- (A specific variety of cotton known for its long, strong fibers.)
- (A high-quality cotton used in premium clothing.)
- (A crop grown for its valuable fibers.)
Advanced Usage
- (A comparative context highlighting its rarity and quality.)
- (Botanical usage.)
Variants and Related Words
- Sea Island (proper noun): The geographic region (islands off South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida) where this cotton was historically grown.
- The Sea Islands have a unique climate that supports sea-island cotton cultivation. (The place of origin.)
- Cotton (n): The general term for the soft, fluffy fiber from plants of the genus Gossypium.
- Cotton is used to make clothing, but sea-island cotton is a premium variety. (A broader category.)
Synonyms
- Long-staple cotton: Cotton with long fibers, of which sea-island cotton is a prime example.
- Extra-long staple (ELS) cotton: A technical classification for cottons with fibers longer than 1.375 inches, including sea-island cotton.
- Gossypium barbadense: The scientific name for the species that includes sea-island cotton and other high-quality varieties.
Related Idioms