Silk

Pronunciation: /silk/

Category: Physiology

Singular: Silk

Plural: Silks

Definition

A natural protein fiber produced by various arthropods, particularly by the larvae of silkworms and certain spiders, used to create cocoons, webs, and other structures.

Etymology

Derived from Old English 'seoloc', which goes back to Ancient Greek 'serikos', referring to silk from Seres, an ancient region in China.

Example

Orb-weaving spiders use silk to construct intricately patterned webs for trapping prey.

Synonyms

Spider silk
Silkworm silk

Related Terms

Spinning
Cocoon
Web
Fibroin

Usage Notes

Silk in spiders is produced by specialized glands and is extruded through spinnerets. In silkworms, silk is used to form protective cocoons during pupation.