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 dragonfly motif landed on a field of flowers in one dark velvet look, and a couture-worthy jacket was constructed out of three-dimensional organza flowers.

From Seattle Times • Feb. 25, 2024

The 16-time Grammy Award winner appeared on the field playing a red piano while wearing a massive red organza cape and Swarovski crystal-encrusted Dolce & Gabanna catsuit to belt out the hits.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 12, 2024

It features shoulder pads, a blue organza skirt, a large bow, and a sash.

From BBC • Dec. 18, 2023

The dress had a single shoulder strap and delicate organza flowers sewn across it, each one with a tiny crystal at its center, and a full skirt that cascaded richly to the floor.

From "Becoming" by Michelle Obama