raffia

American  

[raf-ee-uh] / ˈræf i ə /

noun

1. a fiber obtained from the leaves of the raffia palm, used for tying plants and other objects and for making mats, baskets, hats, and the like.

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raffia British  

/ ˈræfɪə /

noun

1. Also called: raffia palm.  a palm tree, Raphia ruffia , native to Madagascar, that has large plumelike leaves, the stalks of which yield a useful fibre

2. the fibre obtained from this plant, used for tying, weaving, etc

3. any of several related palms or the fibre obtained from them

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Etymology

Origin of raffia

1880–85; earlier rofia raffia palm, said to be < Malagasy

Example Sentences

Summer romance gets a chic upgrade in Prada’s newest collection, where handwoven raffia accessories meet a sunny summer palette.

From Los Angeles Times

As the plant grows, position a bamboo cane so that it reaches just above the desired stem height, securing it with a raffia tie to provide support.

From Seattle Times

What did she think of the Marni X No Vacancy Inn orange raffia hat with cutout sunglasses that Valencia had her wear?

From Los Angeles Times

Along with the other models, they walked the long, narrow hallway of the New York Public Library showing variations of Burch’s concept, including faux croc tops and skirts, along with Tinsel raffia coats and dresses.

From Seattle Times

Other items, in contrast to the commercially made products, seem to be more carefully handmade: a headdress with beads and feathers, or a carved bird mask attached to flowing raffia.

From Seattle Times