"Combed wool" is a term used to describe wool fibers that have been combed to remove short and uneven fibers before being spun into yarn. The spelling of "combed" is pronounced /kəʊmd/ using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA), with the emphasis on the first syllable. It is spelled with a "b" and an "e" because it comes from the verb "to comb", which means to straighten and untangle hair or fibers with a comb. Combining the verb with "wool" creates the compound noun "combed wool."
Combed wool refers to a type of fiber obtained from animal sources, most commonly sheep. This term specifically pertains to the process of combing wool fibers to create a more refined and higher quality yarn or fabric.
Combing is a mechanical process performed on raw wool to remove impurities and align the fibers in one direction. This meticulous technique involves passing the wool through fine-toothed metal combs or brushes to separate and sort the fibers based on length and thickness. The aim of combing is to eliminate shorter, coarser hairs known as noils, as well as debris, such as dirt and vegetation, which may be present in the raw wool.
The result of this process is combed wool, which boasts smoother, stronger, and more uniform fibers. Combed wool tends to be softer, lustrous, and less prone to pilling than other types of wool. Due to its higher quality, combed wool is often used in the production of premium textiles and garments, such as fine suits, tailored jackets, and luxurious knitwear.
In addition to its superior aesthetic qualities, combed wool offers excellent insulating properties, moisture-wicking abilities, and breathability. These natural characteristics make it an ideal choice for cold-weather apparel, as well as outdoor and active wear items. Furthermore, combed wool is highly versatile and can be blended with other fibers, such as silk or cotton, to enhance its performance and create unique fabric blends.
Overall, combed wool is highly valued in the textile industry for its refined and luxurious qualities, making it a sought-after material for various applications.
The word "combed wool" comes from the combination of the noun "wool" and the verb "comb".
The noun "wool" originated from the Old English word "wull" or "wul". It can be traced back further to the Proto-Germanic word "wulno". The term has remained relatively consistent throughout the centuries, referring to the soft, dense, and often curly or wavy hair of certain mammals, especially sheep.
The verb "comb" comes from the Old English word "cambian", derived from the Proto-Germanic word "kambōną". It carries the meaning of employing a comb or a similar instrument to untangle, straighten, or arrange hair or wool. The act of combing wool is an essential step in processing it, as it removes debris, straightens the fibers, and prepares it for spinning or weaving.