/shi fon", shif"on/ , n.
1. a sheer fabric of silk, nylon, or rayon in plain weave.
2. any women's dress ornament, as ribbon or lace.
adj.
3. (of dresses, scarves, etc.) resembling or made of chiffon.
4. (in cooking) having a light, frothy texture, as certain pies and cakes containing beaten egg whites.
[ 1755-65; chiffe rag ( shiff sheer fabric) + -on n. suffix ]