The word "Tawed" is a verb that means to clean or prepare an animal hide by soaking it in a tannin solution. The spelling of "Tawed" is pronounced as /tɔːd/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The "t" sound is pronounced with the tip of the tongue touching the alveolar ridge, followed by an "aw" sound produced by rounding the lips. The "d" sound is articulated by touching the tongue against the alveolar ridge and releasing a burst of air. Understanding the IPA transcription helps to ensure accurate pronunciation of this word.
Tawed is an adjective that typically refers to the process of preparing animal hide, particularly sheepskin or goat skin, by using a specific tanning method known as tawing. Tawing is the process of transforming rawhide into a flexible and durable material through the use of alum, a type of salt that acts as a tanning agent. The specific technique involves soaking the hide in a solution of alum and water to effectively remove any excess flesh, fat, and hair. The hide is then dried, stretched, and sometimes scraped to generate a smooth and even surface. The treated hide is known as "tawed leather."
Tawed leather, also called white leather due to its pale coloring, is distinct from other forms of leather. It is known for its softness, pliability, and resistance to decay. Given its versatility and ability to take dyes and decorative finishes well, tawed leather has been used for a variety of purposes throughout history, including for bookbinding, glove-making, clothing, and other similar applications.
In summary, tawed is an adjective used to describe the process by which animal hide is treated with alum to create tawed leather. This technique produces a flexible and durable material that can be used for various purposes due to its unique properties.
Rendered like leather.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "tawed" primarily comes from the Middle English term "tawen", which traces its origins back to the Old English word "togian". "Togian" meant "to dress or prepare (hides) for tanning", which is the process of converting animal skins into leather. Over time, "togian" evolved into "tawen" and eventually transformed into "tawed".
The word "tawed" specifically refers to the process of treating animal hides with alum or other similar chemicals, known as tawing, to produce a type of leather called "tawed leather". Tawed leather is distinct from traditional tanned leather, as it undergoes a different treatment process. The term "tawed" is commonly used in the context of leatherworking and the production of leather goods.