Pronunciation: [tˈawə] (IPA) 
The word "Tawer" is spelled with the letter "t" followed by "aw" which is a dipthong formed by the vowels "a" and "w". The dipthong is followed by the letter "e" and then a final "r". The phonetic transcription for "Tawer" is /tɔː ər/. The first syllable /tɔː/ is pronounced with a long "o" sound and the vowel is elongated. The second syllable /ər/ is pronounced with a neutral or unstressed schwa sound followed by an "r" sound.
Tawer is a noun that refers to a skilled craftsman or tradesperson who specializes in the art of preparing and dressing leather hides to make them suitable for use in various industries. The term is primarily used in the context of traditional leatherworking and has historical roots in European craftsmanship.
A tawer typically works with raw animal hides and employs a variety of techniques to transform them into leather that is pliable, durable, and aesthetically pleasing. These techniques may include soaking the hides in water, stretching and softening them, removing hair and flesh, and treating them with tanning agents to prevent decomposition. The ultimate goal of the tawer is to produce leather that can be used for a range of purposes, such as making clothing, shoes, belts, bags, or other leather goods.
The art of tawing has been practiced for centuries and requires a combination of technical skill, knowledge of different types of leather, and an understanding of traditional tanning methods. Tawers often work in specialized workshops equipped with the necessary tools and equipment for their craft, including scraping knives, sharpening stones, and tanning vats.
In modern times, tawers may also use mechanized processes and chemicals to expedite the tanning process, although there are still craftsmen who adhere to traditional, labor-intensive methods. While the occupation of a tawer has become less common due to advancements in industrial production and the availability of modern synthetic materials, it remains an integral part of the leatherworking heritage.
One who taws.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "tawer" has its etymology rooted in the Middle English term "tawier", which came from the Old English verb "tawian" or "tawen". The original meaning of "tawian" was to prepare or dress a material, specifically leather, by treating it with tannin or oil. Over time, the word evolved and "tawer" began to refer to someone who performed the task of tawing leather. This occupation involved softening, coloring, and preserving the hides to make them suitable for various purposes. The etymology of "tawer" ultimately traces back to Proto-Germanic and possibly even further to the Proto-Indo-European root *dheh₂u-, which means to process, prepare, or treat.
