How Do You Spell GOSSAMER?

Pronunciation: [ɡˈɒsəmə] (IPA)

The word "gossamer" is often misspelled as "gossimer" due to similar sounding vowels. However, the correct pronunciation and spelling is [ˈɡɒsəmə] with a distinct "a" vowel sound followed by the "m" consonant. The word refers to a delicate and fine material, often used in clothing, and is derived from Middle English and Old French. While the spelling may be tricky, mastering the correct pronunciation can help to avoid confusion or misunderstandings.

GOSSAMER Meaning and Definition

1. Gossamer is an adjective and noun that describes something delicate, light, and sheer in texture or appearance. As an adjective, gossamer refers to something exceptionally thin, filmy, or fine, often suggesting a fragile or ethereal nature. It implies a structure or fabric that is almost weightless and translucent, resembling cobwebs or delicate spider silk. The term is often used to evoke a sense of delicacy, elegance, or sheer beauty, as in "gossamer wings" or "a gossamer veil."

   As a noun, gossamer refers to a fine, sheer fabric resembling a delicate cobweb. This type of cloth is usually used for decorative purposes or to create lightweight garments such as veils or scarves. Gossamer may also be metaphorically used to represent something intangible, like an idea or concept that is ephemeral or elusive.

   Furthermore, the term gossamer can be extended to describe delicate, light, or sheer qualities in general, such as the gossamer threads of fog or mist clinging to the air. It can also describe something insubstantial or lacking substance, such as a gossamer promise or gossamer hope.

   Overall, gossamer conveys an image of something ethereal, delicate, and barely perceptible, often associated with beauty and fragility.

2. The fine long filaments formed by a small spider, found floating in the air in calm clear weather in autumn; anything unsubstantial or flimsy.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for GOSSAMER

• gossmer
• costamer
• gossimer
• gossomar
• gosamer
• gossamerr
• gossamry
• Gossamary
• gosamers
• gossamerss
• gossemers
• gossamier
• gassamer
• gosammer
• gossmaner
• goosamers
• Rouseiter
• jussame

Etymology of GOSSAMER

The word "gossamer" has its origin in Middle English, derived from the Old English word "gosmære". In early usage, "gosmære" referred to a thin cobweb or a film of spider silk floating through the air, often seen on grass or bushes. The term is a combination of "gos", meaning "goose", and "mære", meaning "moth". The use of "gos" here is believed to be a reference to the lightness and delicate appearance of goose down, while "mære" suggests a thin, fleeting quality, which is likened to the ethereal characteristics of moths. Over time, the word "gossamer" expanded its meaning to include any delicate, sheer, or fine material, beyond just spider silk.

Similar spelling words for GOSSAMER

• gosmore,
• consumer.

Plural form of GOSSAMER is GOSSAMERS