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.

Example Sentences

Ms. Kobielski’s photos are highly saturated, with daytime flash manufacturing brilliance against silk organza and rhinestone jewelry.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 1, 2026

"A silk organza shouldn't be judged as less durable than a polyester one based purely on its physical resistance," he told Le Monde newspaper.

From BBC • Jul. 12, 2023

A sheer organza top and pants were prettily decorated with floral appliques on the cuffs.

From Seattle Times • Jun. 17, 2023

Their shimmery transparent organza mimics the L.A. sky: at noon, dusk and midnight.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 15, 2022

I follow the gold organza that drapes the ceiling and trails the flower-strewn aisle leading to the mandap—the traditional wedding canopy under which the vows will take place.

From "Love, Hate & Other Filters" by Samira Ahmed