pashmina
UK[pæʃˈmiːnə]US[pɑːʃˈmiːnə]
n
a fine type of cashmere wool, originally from the undercoat of Himalayan goats.
n
a shawl or scarf made from this wool.
Etymology
the word 'pashmina' entered english in the 18th century from the persian word 'pašm', meaning 'wool'. this persian term itself has ancient roots in the avestan word 'pašna-'. the modern english term specifically refers to the fine wool from the pashmina goat, a breed of the himalayan cashmere goat, and by extension to the luxurious shawls made from it. the journey from a general term for wool in ancient iranian languages to a specific, high-value textile in global fashion illustrates a classic path of semantic narrowing for a luxury commodity.
Analysis
this word is a loanword borrowed as a single unit from persian via urdu/hindi. it is not productively formed from smaller morphemes within english.
Examples
she wrapped herself in a soft, intricately woven pashmina to ward off the evening chill.
the pashmina industry is a vital source of income for many artisans in the kashmir region.
genuine pashmina is prized for its exceptional warmth, softness, and lightweight feel.