The word "tussahs" is pronounced \ˈtʌsəz\ and refers to a type of silk fabric made from the silk produced by wild caterpillars. The spelling of this word is phonetically unusual, with the "-ss-" indicating a voiced consonant cluster followed by an unvoiced cluster. The "-h-" serves to separate the two clusters and indicate a slight aspiration of the second "s" sound. Despite its unusual spelling, "tussahs" is a fairly common term in the textile industry.
Tussahs, also spelled as Tussars, refer to a type of silk fabric or fiber that is derived from the cocoons of wild silkmoths. The term "tussah" originates from the Sanskrit word "tussah," meaning "rough silk." These silkworms generally feed on a variety of leaves such as oak, juniper, or pines, resulting in a more distinctive, coarser texture compared to cultivated silks.
As a fabric, tussahs are characterized by their durability, strength, and resistance to wrinkles. They typically have a slightly nubby texture, lending a unique and rustic charm to the material. Tussah silk can vary in color, ranging from beige or light brown to a more golden hue, often with irregularities in tone that add to its natural aspect. Due to its origin and production, tussah silk is often regarded as a more sustainable and eco-friendly option than its cultivated counterparts.
Tussahs are commonly used in a range of textile applications. They serve as a versatile fabric for manufacturing apparel items like dresses, jackets, shawls, and saris. Moreover, tussah silk is also used in home furnishing products, such as upholstery, curtains, or cushion covers, due to its resilience and appealing texture.
Overall, tussahs embody the beauty of natural silk fibers with their unique texture and earthy tones, offering a distinct aesthetic in the world of textiles.
The word "tussahs" is derived from the Hindi word "tussah" (also spelled as "tussar" or "tasar"), which means "coarse silk". The Hindi word itself is derived from the Sanskrit word "kosa", which also means "silk". Tussah refers to a type of wild silk that is produced by several species of silk moths, mainly found in India and other parts of Southeast Asia. The plural form "tussahs" is used to refer to multiple pieces or items made from tussah silk.