raffia

noun

raf·​fia ˈra-fē-ə How to pronounce raffia (audio)
: the fiber of the raffia palm used especially as cord for tying and weaving

Examples of raffia in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Grab it in black or beige and pair it with platform raffia sandals for the ultimate comfy-chic look. — Annie Blackman, InStyle, 25 July 2026 Pair a striped tee with your silky slip skirt, finishing the look with vacation-ready accessories—a raffia tote, flip-flops, and shield sunglasses. — Alice Cary, Vogue, 24 July 2026 His work uses Japanese cotton or Italian silk, along with Burkinabé faso dan fani, Ghanaian kente, or Cameroonian raffia. — Jenny Vaughan, semafor.com, 20 July 2026 Take cues from the look above and pair them with a short-sleeve polo, metallic strappy sandals, and a raffia bag for an easygoing weekend or vacation outing. — Kelsey Stewart, Glamour, 18 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for raffia

Word History

Etymology

Malagasy rafia

First Known Use

1850, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of raffia was in 1850

Phrases Containing raffia

Browse Nearby Words

raffe
raffia
raffia palm
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Raffia.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/raffia. Accessed 5 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

raffia

noun
raf·​fia ˈraf-ē-ə How to pronounce raffia (audio)
: fiber from a palm of Madagascar and Africa used as a cord for weaving various articles (as baskets or hats) and for tying
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