The Ancient Names of Textiles
The Ancient Names of Textiles is a book that investigates the history and origin of textile names in ancient times. The book is divided into two parts. The first part introduces the names of various textiles in ancient times, including their meanings, origins, and changes over time. The second part discusses the cultural and historical backgrounds that influenced the naming of textiles, such as the ancient economy, politics, and social customs. The book provides a unique perspective on the history of textiles and the evolution of their names, offering valuable insights into the cultural and social development of ancient times.
Textiles have played a significant role in the history of mankind, and their names have undergone numerous changes over time. In ancient times, the naming of textiles often reflected their purpose, material, or cultural significance. From their original purpose to their role in society, these names have continued to evolve alongside the development of textile technology and changing fashions.
One of the earliest known references to textiles is in the Egyptian Book of the Dead, where the term “liara” is used to describe a form of woven cloth. This word may have been derived from the verb “lira,” which means to weave. Another example is the Chinese word “织”, which also means to weave and is often used in compound words to describe various textiles.
As textiles began to be used for different purposes, their names also began to change. For instance, in medieval Europe, the term “linen” was used to describe a type of cloth made from flax fibers. This name was derived from the Latin word “linum,” which means flax. Similarly, the term “cotton” comes from the Latin “cottonum,” which refers to a type of shrub that produces cotton fibers.
The naming of textiles also reflected their cultural significance. In many cultures, textiles were not just functional objects but also symbols of status, wealth, or religious significance. For example, in India, the term “saree” refers to a long, flowery garment that is worn by women on special occasions. This name is derived from the Sanskrit word “sari,” which means noble or sacred.
Another interesting example is the Chinese term “丝绸”, which refers to a type of smooth, shiny textile made from silk worms’ cocoons. This name is made up of two characters that together mean “silk” and “fabric.” It is a symbol of luxury and has been used in China for thousands of years.
As time passed and technology advanced, new types of textiles were invented, and their names began to reflect these changes. For instance, in the 19th century, the term “rayon” was coined to describe a new type of artificial silk that was being manufactured using a process invented by French chemist Charles Frederick Cross. This name comes from the French words “rai” (ray) and “on” (to make), which together mean “to make a ray.”
Similarly, in the 20th century, the term “polyester” was introduced to describe a new type of plastic material that could be spun into threads and woven into fabrics. This name comes from the Greek words “poly” (many) and “ester” (a class of compounds), which together mean “many esters.”
Today, with the advent of new technologies and changing fashions, the naming of textiles continues to evolve. From sustainable materials like organic cotton to innovative designs like 3D-printed clothing, our understanding of textiles and their names is constantly changing.
In conclusion, the ancient names of textiles provide us with a glimpse into the history and culture of our ancestors. From their original purpose to their role in society today, these names have continued to evolve alongside the development of textile technology and changing fashions. By understanding these names and their origins, we can gain a deeper understanding of our relationship with textiles and how they have shaped our world today.
Articles related to the knowledge points of this article：
Title: The Rich Cultural Legacy and Textile Industry of Zhejiang Province
Taming the Textile TradeWinds: The Story of Ta Meng Textiles, Inc.
Yiwu Goodtex Textiles: A Looming Success Story
Title: An Overview of Various Techniques for Treating Textiles
