Fibre

Definition

Fibre refers to a thread or filament from which a vegetable tissue, mineral substance, or textile is formed.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English (Fiber)

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈfaɪbər/
• Respelling: FY-ber (with "FY" as in "fly" and "ber" as in "her")

British English (Fibre)

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈfaɪbə/
• Respelling: FY-buh (with "FY" as in "fly" and "buh" as in "sofa")

In both dialects, "fibre" (or "fiber") places the primary stress on the first syllable, "FY." The pronunciation is similar across both American and British English, with a slight difference in the ending: "FY-ber" in American English and "FY-buh" in British English.

Etymology

The word "fibre" originates from the Latin word "fibra," meaning "a thread or filament." It entered the English language in the Middle Ages, and the British spelling "fibre" became standard, while the American English version adopted the spelling "fiber."

Derivatives

• Fibrous (adjective)
• Fiberboard (noun)
• Fiberglass (noun)
• Fibred (adjective, less common, refers to something that has fibers)
• Re-fibre (verb, to add or incorporate fibers)

Synonyms

• Thread
• Filament
• Strand

Antonyms

• Whole
• Mass
• Block

Usage

"Fibre" is commonly used in various contexts, including textile production, nutrition, and materials science. In textiles, fibres are spun into yarn or thread and then woven or knitted to create fabrics. In nutrition, dietary fibre is an essential component of a healthy diet, aiding in digestion and preventing certain diseases.

Related Terms

• Fibre-optic: Relating to the transmission of information as light pulses along a glass or plastic wire or fibre.
• Cellulose: An organic compound that is the main constituent of plant cell walls and of vegetable fibres such as cotton.
• Polymer: A substance that has a molecular structure built up chiefly or completely from a large number of similar units bonded together.

Detailed Definition

Noun

• Textile Fibre: Refers to a slender, elongated natural or synthetic material that can be spun into yarn or thread for weaving, knitting, or other forms of textile production.
  • Example: Cotton is a natural fibre commonly used to make clothing.

• Material Science: In a broader sense, fibre refers to materials used in manufacturing composites, insulation, and other industrial applications, such as fiberglass or carbon fibre.
  • Example: The boat hull was reinforced with carbon fibre for added strength.

• Dietary Fibre: Refers to the indigestible portion of plant foods that aids in digestion by regulating the body's use of sugars, helping to keep hunger and blood sugar in check.
  • Example: Whole grains, fruits, and vegetables are rich sources of dietary fibre.