anilao

noun

ani·​lao

variants or anilau

äˈnēˌlau̇

or anilo

-(ˌ)lō

plural -s

1

: a shrub (Columbia serratifolia) of the family Tiliaceae yielding a strong bast fiber that is found chiefly in the Philippines

2

: any of several shrubs or trees of the genus Grewia yielding a cordage fiber

Word History

Etymology

Tagalog

First Known Use

circa 1902, in the meaning defined at sense 1

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now