Crottal (Noun)
Meaning
Any of several lichens of the genus Parmelia from which reddish brown or purple dyes are made.
Classification
Nouns denoting plants.
Examples
- The ancient Celtic people used crottal to dye their woolen garments a rich reddish brown color.
- In the Scottish Highlands, crottal was highly valued for its vibrant purple hue, used to dye the kilts of clan leaders.
- Crottal, a type of lichen, was an essential ingredient in the traditional textile industry of rural Ireland.
- The crottal lichen was carefully harvested and processed to create a range of earthy tones for natural dyeing.
- In traditional Orkney Islands crafts, crottal was used to create a distinctive reddish-brown color for handwoven woolen goods.