What does silk mean?
Silk is a fine, lustrous fiber made from the cocoons of silkworms and woven into a smooth, lightweight fabric valued for its sheen, drape, and delicate texture. As a noun, it can refer to the fiber itself, the fabric, or an object made from it, as in a silk scarf, silk dress, or spool of silk. Its associations with luxury and refinement are strong, although silk has also long been used for practical purposes such as parachutes, sewing thread, and textiles. The word can also be used as a verb, especially in the phrase “silk one’s hair,” meaning to brush or smooth it. In figurative use, “silk” may describe something exceptionally smooth, soft, or elegant. It is a familiar term in both British and American English, with “fiber” and “fibbre” differing only in regional spelling.
A fine, lustrous fiber obtained from silkworm cocoons and woven into a smooth, lightweight fabric; also the fabric or thread made from it.
"The tailor selected a delicate silk for the lining."
Usually uncountable when referring to the fiber or fabric; “silks” can denote different kinds of silk or individual pieces.
To smooth or make sleek, especially by brushing or arranging hair.
"He carefully silked his hair before stepping onto the stage."
Relatively uncommon and most often used in the context of hair.
The plural is uncommon when referring generally to the material, but can indicate different types of silk, individual pieces, or commercial varieties.
"The shop sells silks from several different regions."
Silk takes its name from the ancient belief that it was first produced by people living in Seres, a region associated with Chinese silk production.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of silk
The English word comes from Old English silc, referring to the material known today as silk. Its ultimate origin is generally traced to Latin sericum or sericeus, borrowed from Greek sērikon, a term connected with the Sēres, the ancient name for regions in China associated with silk production. Through trade and cultural exchange, silk spread westward and became an important luxury textile in Europe.
Related word forms
How silk is actually used
As a noun, silk commonly denotes the fiber or fabric and is usually uncountable in that sense; the plural “silks” is used for distinct kinds of silk, individual pieces, or silks in more technical and commercial contexts. As a verb, “silk” is relatively uncommon and is mainly used in contexts involving hair or fabric.
Easily confused with silk
Silk is a material or a fine fiber, whereas slick means smooth, glossy, or cleverly stylish and can also describe a surface that is slippery.