spun rayon: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples

Rayon, including spun rayon, is a semi-synthetic or regenerated cellulose fiber. It is made from natural wood pulp but heavily processed chemically, so it is not considered a natural fiber like cotton or wool, nor a fully synthetic one like polyester.

Regular 'filament rayon' is made from long, continuous threads, giving it a smooth, shiny, silk-like appearance. Spun rayon is made by cutting the long filaments into short staples and then spinning them into yarn, resulting in a softer, more opaque, cotton-like texture with less sheen.

Yes, it is widely used in clothing. It is valued for its softness, breathability, good drape, and ability to take dyes vividly. However, like many rayons, it can be prone to wrinkling and may weaken when wet, requiring careful laundering.

Viscose is the most common type of rayon. Therefore, 'spun rayon' is often specifically 'spun viscose'. The term 'viscose' is broader and can refer to both filament and spun types. In many contexts, especially outside strict technical use, they are used interchangeably when describing the spun staple form.

A type of rayon yarn or fabric made from short, staple fibers that are spun together, giving it a texture and appearance similar to natural spun fibers like cotton or wool, rather than the continuous filament of standard rayon.

Spun rayon is usually technical / manufacturing / fashion retail in register.

Spun rayon: in British English it is pronounced /ˌspʌn ˈreɪ.ɒn/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌspʌn ˈreɪ.ɑːn/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.