isinglass

[ ahy-zuhn-glas, -glahs, ahy-zing- ]

noun

1. a pure, transparent or translucent form of gelatin, obtained from the air bladders of certain fish, especially the sturgeon: used in glue and jellies and as a clarifying agent.
2. mica, especially in thin, translucent sheets.

isinglass

/ ˈaɪzɪŋˌɡlɑːs /

noun

1. a gelatine made from the air bladders of freshwater fish, used as a clarifying agent and adhesive

isinglass

/ ī′zən-glăs′,ī′zĭng- /

1. A transparent, almost pure gelatin prepared from the inner membrane of the swim bladder of the sturgeon and certain other fishes. It is used as an adhesive and a clarifying agent.
2. Mica, especially in the form of the mineral muscovite.

Word History and Origins

Origin of isinglass¹

1535–45; < Middle Dutch huysenblase (with glass for blase by folk etymology), literally, sturgeon bladder; cognate with German Hausenblase

Word History and Origins

Origin of isinglass¹

C16: from Middle Dutch huysenblase , literally: sturgeon bladder; influenced by English glass

Example Sentences

Finish them by dipping a sponge into a size, made by boiling isinglass in water, and rub the wrong side.

From Project Gutenberg

Use good quality silk, and on this spread a solution of isinglass warmed.

From Project Gutenberg

If you put too much water to the calves-feet, the jelly will never be firm, till it is boiled over again with more isinglass.

From Project Gutenberg

Dissolve two ounces of isinglass in a little hot water, and add it to the jelly just as it is beginning to boil.

From Project Gutenberg

Break it up, and to each pound allow a gill of water and an ounce of isinglass.

From Project Gutenberg