Tape
/teɪp/noun
A narrow strip of material, usually adhesive or woven, used for fastening, binding, measuring, or recording.
Did you know?Tape is related to the anatomical word tapetum, as in tapetum lucidum—the reflective “shining carpet” behind many animals’ retinas.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
τάπης (tapēs)
“A carpet, rug, or woven covering; likely an ancient borrowing of uncertain ultimate origin.”
Classical Latin
Latin
tapēte
“A carpet, tapestry, or richly woven cloth, borrowed from Greek.”
Old English
Old English
tæppe
“A strip or piece of cloth, developing from the broader sense of woven material.”
Middle English
English
tape
“A narrow strip of cloth used for tying, binding, or edging.”
Modern English
English
tape
“A strip of material used for fastening, binding, measuring, recording, or other practical purposes.”