Wool
/wʊl/noun
The soft, curly hair of sheep and similar animals, often used for textiles.
Did you know?In ancient times, wool was not just a material; it was often used in rituals, symbolizing protection and warmth against evil spirits.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*wegʰlō
“to spin or twist, indicating the action of creating fibers.”
Ancient Greek
Greek
ἀγρός (agros)
“referring to wild sheep or the land they grazed, connecting to the pastoral roots of wool.”
Old English
OE
wull
“the fleece of sheep, emphasizing its material and agricultural importance.”
14th Century
Middle English
wolle
“the soft, fibrous covering of sheep, used in textiles and trade.”
Modern English
English
wool
“the material derived from sheep, now a staple in clothing and textiles.”