Word Study
esparto
CIDE DICTIONARY
esparto, n. [Sp.; cf. L. spartum Spanish broom, Gr. .].
A species of Spanish grass (Macrochloa tenacissima ), of which cordage, shoes, baskets, etc., are made. It is also used for making paper. [1913 Webster]
OXFORD DICTIONARY
esparto, n. (pl. -os) (in full esparto grass) a coarse grass, Stipa tenacissima, native to Spain and N. Africa, with tough narrow leaves, used to make ropes, wickerwork, and good-quality paper.
Etymology
Sp. f. L spartum f. Gk sparton rope
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