organza

American  

[awr-gan-zuh] / ɔrˈgæn zə /

noun

organzas plural

1. a sheer rayon, nylon, or silk fabric constructed in plain weave and with a crisp finish, used in the manufacture of evening dresses, trimmings, etc.

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organza British  

/ ɔːˈɡænzə /

noun

1. a thin stiff fabric of silk, cotton, nylon, rayon, etc

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Other Word Forms

Inflected Forms

noun

• organzas
  plural

Etymology

Origin of organza

First recorded in 1810–20; origin uncertain

Explanation

Organza is a fabric that's light and slightly sheer, with a bit of a shine to it. Formal gowns and wedding dresses are sometimes made using organza. Organza gets its name from the Italian name for a strong silk thread, organzino. This fancy textile is traditionally woven from silk, with newer, less expensive versions made of polyester. Organza is distinctive for being light and sheer — but also stiff, holding its shape rather than softly draping. A lavish gala would be the perfect occasion to wear an elegant organza gown.