Definition of hessian

The word "hessian" derives from the German state of Hesse, where fabric made of tightly woven cotton or linen fibers was first produced in the late 17th century. Initially, this fabric was called "Hessisches Leinwand" in German, which roughly translates to "Hessian linen cloth." In English, this fabric became known as "Hessian cloth," and later, simply "hessian." The term was often used to describe a specific type of rugged cloth that was widely used as packaging material in the 18th and 19th centuries, as it was strong, durable, and relatively inexpensive. Interestingly, the name "hessian" also came to be associated with British troops, known as "Hessians," who served in the American Revolutionary War. The troops were so named because they were initially recruited by the Electorate of Hesse in Germany, and many of them wore uniforms made from the distinctive hessian fabric. Today, the word "hessian" is still used to describe various types of woven cotton and linen fabrics, as well as a specific type of plain-woven fabric made from synthetic fibers that is often used as a protective covering in construction and industrial applications.