Catechu (Noun)
Meaning 1
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 catechu extract was used to tan the leather, giving it a distinctive brown color and a strong, earthy smell.
- In traditional medicine, catechu was used to treat a variety of ailments, including fever and rheumatism.
- The fisherman applied a mixture of catechu and oil to his nets to preserve them and prevent rot.
- The sailmaker used catechu to dye the canvas, creating a durable and water-resistant fabric.
- The artisan mixed catechu with other natural dyes to create a range of earthy tones for her textiles.
Synonyms
Hypernyms
Meaning 2
East Indian spiny tree having twice-pinnate leaves and yellow flowers followed by flat pods; source of black catechu.
Classification
Nouns denoting plants.
Examples
- The catechu tree is native to the tropical forests of East India and Southeast Asia.
- Catechu is used in traditional medicine in many Asian cultures, particularly in Ayurvedic and Unani practices.
- The bark of the catechu tree is harvested and dried to produce a brown or black powder used as a natural dye and astringent.
- Catechu is also used as a flavoring agent in some traditional Indian and Southeast Asian recipes.
- The catechu tree is a valuable source of timber and is often cultivated in plantations for its wood and other products.