/al"beuh traws', -tros'/ , n.
1. any of several large, web-footed sea birds of the family Diomedeidae that have the ability to remain aloft for long periods. Cf. wandering albatross .
2. a seemingly inescapable moral or emotional burden, as of guilt or responsibility.
3. something burdensome that impedes action or progress.
4. Textiles.
a. a lightweight worsted fabric with a crepe or pebble finish.
b. a plain-weave cotton fabric with a soft nap surface.
[ 1675-85; var. of algatross frigate bird
alcatraz pelican, prob. al-ghattas a kind of sea eagle, lit., the diver; -b- for -g- perh. by assoc. with L albus white (the bird's color) ]