byssus

noun bys·sus \ˈbi-səs\

plural bys·sus·es or bys·si \-ˌsī, -(ˌ)sē\

Definition of BYSSUS

: a fine probably linen cloth of ancient times

[New Latin, from Latin] : a tuft of long tough filaments by which some bivalve mollusks (as mussels) adhere to a surface

Middle English bissus, from Latin byssus, from Greek byssos flax, of Semitic origin; akin to Hebrew būṣ linen cloth

First Known Use: 14th century

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