Isinglass

Pronunciation

• UK IPA: /ˈaɪzɪŋɡlɑːs/
• US IPA: /ˈaɪzɪŋɡlæs/Rhymes: -ɑːs

Origin

Apparently from obsolete Dutch huisenblas, German Hausenblase ("sturgeon's bladder").

Full definition of isinglass

Noun

1. A form of gelatine obtained from the air bladder of the sturgeon and certain other fish, used as an adhesive and as a clarifying agent for wine and beer.
2. A thin, transparent sheet of mica.
• 1943, Oscar Hammerstein II, "The Surrey With The Fringe On Top", Oklahoma! (libretto):The dashboard's genuine leather,
  With isinglass curtains y' can roll right down,
  In case there's a change in the weather.