Black Catechu (Noun)
Meaning
Extract of the heartwood of Acacia catechu used for dyeing and tanning and preserving fishnets and sails; formerly used medicinally.
Classification
Nouns denoting plants.
Examples
- The artisan applied a solution of black catechu to the fabric to give it a rich brown color.
- The ancient mariners used black catechu to protect their sails from the harsh marine environment.
- In some parts of Asia, black catechu is still used to tan and preserve leather.
- Before the advent of modern preservatives, black catechu was used to treat fishing nets to prevent decay.
- The natural dye extracted from black catechu was used in traditional medicine for its astringent properties.