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mercerize definition

mer·cer·ize (mʉr′sər īz′)

transitive verb mercerized -·ized′, mercerizing -·iz′·ing

to treat (cotton thread or fabric) under tension with a caustic soda solution in order to strengthen it, give it a silky luster, and make it more receptive to dyes

Etymology: after J. Mercer (1791-1866), Eng calico dealer

Webster's New World College Dictionary Copyright © 2009 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

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