floss etymology

Etymology:

  • Old English "floss" (n.)
  • Middle English "flos" (v.)
  • Middle Low German "flossen" (v.)
  • Proto-Germanic *flus- (to flow)

Meaning:

  • (noun) A thin, thread-like substance used for cleaning teeth.
  • (verb) To clean teeth with dental floss.

Origin:

The English word "floss" originally referred to a type of loose, woolly fiber. It was used specifically for the fine, silky fibers that formed on the surface of yarn during spinning. These fibers were combed out to produce a fluffy, downy material that was used as stuffing for pillows, cushions, and other soft goods.

The term "floss" was later extended to other types of loose, thread-like materials, including the dental floss used to clean teeth. Dental floss was first developed in the 19th century as a more effective way to remove food particles and bacteria from between teeth. It was originally made from silk or linen thread, but today it is typically made from nylon or other synthetic materials.

floss relate terms

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  • floss

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  • scalene

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  • yarn

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    Etymology Middle English derth from Old English deore dear precious costly Proto

  • thread

    Etymology The word thread traces its origins back to the Old English word thræd whi

  • silk

    Etymology Middle English silke from Old English seolc sioloc Proto Germanic sīdō

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