1. a genus of palm trees native to tropical Africa and Madagascar, having large feather-like leaves
Usage: botanical
2. the fiber obtained from the leaves of raphia palms, used for making baskets, mats, and rope

Examples

• The raphia palm can grow up to 80 feet tall in its native habitat.
• Local artisans weave beautiful baskets from raphia fiber.
• The raphia leaves are harvested and processed to extract the strong fibers.
• Traditional African crafts often incorporate raphia into their designs.
• The raphia palm is an important economic resource for many communities.
• She learned to work with raphia during her pottery class.