organza

American  

[awr-gan-zuh] / ɔrˈgæn zə /

noun

plural

organzas

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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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

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

From BBC • Dec. 18, 2023

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

From Seattle Times • Jun. 17, 2023

It was midnight before Ross, 79 and every inch the icon, floated onto the stage in a frothy orange organza gown singing her 1980 hit “I’m Coming Out.”

From Washington Post • Apr. 30, 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