ˈbast, -aa(ə)-, -ai- noun
( -s )
Etymology: Middle English, from Old English bæst; akin to Old High German & Old Norse bast
1. : phloem
2. or bast fiber : any of certain strong woody fibers obtained chiefly from the phloem but also sometimes from the pericycle or cortex of various plants and used especially in the manufacture of ropes, cordage, matting, and fabrics