catgut
/ˈkætˌɡʌt/
noun
- A strong, thin cord made from the dried intestines of animals (usually sheep or goats), used for the strings of musical instruments such as violins and harps, and for surgical stitches.
- Violin strings were traditionally made from catgut, though modern ones are often synthetic.
- The surgeon used catgut stitches that would dissolve on their own.
- Catgut is still preferred by some musicians for its warm tone.