The spelling of the word "wast worsted" may seem perplexing to some as it contains the uncommonly used "wast." However, the correct pronunciation of this phrase is /wɑːst ˈwʊstɪd/. The "wast" portion is actually an archaic spelling of "waist," meaning the narrow part of the garment between the chest and hips. Meanwhile, "worsted" refers to a type of wool yarn or fabric. So together, "wast worsted" references a garment made from worsted wool that is fitted at the waist.
"Wast worsted" is a phrase used in traditional textile production and refers to a type of discarded or inferior quality worsted fabric. "Wast" is a variant of "waste," which means unused or leftover materials in the context of textile manufacturing, while "worsted" refers to a type of yarn or fabric made from long-staple wool fibers that have been combed and tightly twisted.
Specifically, "wast worsted" denotes the by-products and remnants resulting from the process of making high-quality worsted textiles. These materials may include short wool fibers, broken strands, unevenly spun yarns, or small fluffs and bits that are deemed unsuitable for use in fine worsted fabrics. Due to the lesser quality of the materials involved, wast worsted is considered inferior and is typically discarded or used in less prestigious applications.
Despite its lower rank in terms of quality, wast worsted can still serve various purposes. It can be used for lower-grade textiles, such as coarse outerwear, blankets, or rugs, where the luxuriousness or fine finish of traditional worsted fabrics is not as essential. Additionally, wast worsted can be recycled or repurposed for other non-textile applications, such as insulation or stuffing for cushions and pillows.
In summary, "wast worsted" is a term in the textile industry that describes the leftover or substandard materials resulting from the production of worsted fabrics, which are typically used for lower-quality textiles or repurposed for various non-textile applications.
The term "wast worsted" is a phrase that has its origins in Middle English.
"Wast" is derived from the Old English word "wæstm", meaning waste or desolation. Over time, it evolved into the Middle English word "wast", which had similar meanings, including devastation or destruction. In the context of the phrase, "wast" implies something that is abandoned or no longer needed.
"Worsted", on the other hand, originated from the village of Worstead in Norfolk, England. The village was known for its textile industry, specializing in a type of fabric known as "worsted". This fabric was made from long-staple wool that was combed and spun to create a smooth and fine yarn. "Worsted" eventually became a term used to describe this specific type of yarn or fabric.