The word "unsized" is spelled as [ʌn.saɪzd]. It is made up of the prefix "un-", which means "not", and the word "sized", which refers to the process of coating paper with sizing material to improve its strength and resistance to water. Therefore, "unsized" means not coated with sizing material. The correct spelling of this word may be confusing, as it is easy to mistake the suffix "-ized" for "-ised". However, the correct spelling is with a "z".
Unsized is an adjective that describes something that has not been treated or coated with sizing, a substance used to strengthen and protect paper or fabric. Typically, sizing is applied to porous materials like paper or fabric to enhance their durability, smoothness, and resistance to water or other liquids. In contrast, unsized materials lack this protective coating and may be more susceptible to damage from moisture, staining, or wear.
In the context of paper, unsized paper refers to sheets that have not been treated with sizing agents during the manufacturing process. Consequently, unsized paper tends to be more absorbent, allowing it to easily soak up ink or other liquids applied to its surface. This property can be advantageous for certain artistic techniques like watercolor painting, where the pigments can freely blend and spread. However, unsized paper may also result in less defined lines and colors due to ink or paint feathering or bleeding.
In textile terminology, unsized fabric refers to cloth that has not undergone sizing treatment. This means that the fabric has not been coated with sizing agents, which can enhance its stiffness, durability, and resistance to shrinkage. Unsized fabric may be preferred by some individuals for its natural drape and softness. However, it may also lack the desired levels of structural integrity, making it more vulnerable to wrinkling or fraying.
Overall, the term unsized is closely connected to the absence of sizing treatment and denotes a lack of added strength, smoothness, or resistance to various external factors in materials like paper or fabric.
Not sized or stiffened.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "unsized" is derived from the prefix "un-" which means "not" or "lacking" and the word "sized". "Sized" originates from the Old French word "sise" meaning "a size or limit". In this context, "sizing" refers to the process of adding substances like starch or gelatin to paper or fabric to enhance its strength and durability. Therefore, "unsized" denotes something that has not been subjected to this process, indicating the absence of added sizing agents.