Pipeclay

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A type of soft, white clay distinguished by its fine texture, commonly used for crafting ceramics and making smoking pipes
2. This natural clay, noted for its pliability, is typically employed in pottery production and the fabrication of pipe materials
3. A soft white clay with a smooth texture valued in crafting ceramics and forming smoking pipes

Etymology: Pipeclay is one of those compounds where the name describes the use directly: a fine, white clay that was historically shaped into tobacco pipes and was also prized for whitening things. The "pipe" in the name refers to the clay pipes that smokers relied on for centuries, which were cheap, easily replaced, and made from this pale, workable material. The clay itself was valued for the same qualities that made it good for pipe bowls. Its fine grain allowed it to be moulded and fired into smooth, light-coloured objects, and when ground into a paste it became a common whitening agent. Soldiers and servants once used it to whiten belts, straps and other leather or cloth equipment, which is why the phrase "pipeclaying" came to mean scrubbing kit to a bright finish, often as a tedious chore.

Synonyms: kaolin, china clay