The correct spelling of the furry creature often used for wool production is "Angora rabbit." The word "Angora" is pronounced /æŋˈɡɔːrə/ with the stress on the first syllable. The letter "a" in "Angora" has an "æ" sound as in "cat" and "rabbit" is pronounced /ˈræbɪt/. It's common to see variations in the spelling of "Angora" such as "Anghora" or "Angorra" due to the similarity of the sound between "a" and "o", but the proper spelling is "Angora."
The angora rabbit is a small to medium-sized domestic rabbit breed that is primarily known for its long, soft, and silky fur, which is highly valued for its exceptional quality and luxurious appeal. Originating from the region of Ankara in Turkey, this breed has been selectively bred for centuries to develop their unique fiber. Its name is derived from this region's historical name, Angora.
An angora rabbit typically has a compact body with a rounded head, short ears, and large, expressive eyes. Their notable characteristic is their thick and dense wool-like coat, which can grow up to several inches in length. This coat is primarily composed of long, silky, and fine fibers called "guard hairs" that are significantly longer than the undercoat. The angora rabbit comes in various color varieties, including white, gray, fawn, and black.
Due to their dense fur, angora rabbits require regular grooming to prevent matting and to maintain the quality of their coat. They necessitate careful brushing and gentle handling to ensure the fibers remain intact. The wool harvested from these rabbits is highly prized by artisans and spinners due to its softness, warmth, and ability to be blended with other fibers.
Angora rabbits are mostly bred for their wool and are not specifically used for their meat or as pets. They are typically kept in indoor cages or hutches, providing them a safe and comfortable environment. Their docile temperament and gentle nature make them suitable companions and show animals, often participating in rabbit exhibitions and competitions. As rabbits known for their stunning and luxurious fur, angora rabbits have a special place in the world of textiles and are cherished for their exquisite fiber.
The word Angora comes from the name of the city in Turkey, Angora (now known as Ankara), where these rabbits were first found and domesticated. The term Angora rabbit was coined to specifically refer to the rabbits found in this region known for their long, soft fur. The word Angora itself may have arisen from the Turkish word angora, meaning velvety.