Definitions

1. noun

a thin, fibrous membrane or tissue, especially in the form of a network of fibers, used as a dressing for wounds or a covering for a surgical instrument

“The surgeon used a byssus to protect the patient’s wound from further irritation.”

2. noun

a type of seaweed or marine algae with a fibrous texture, especially of the genus Saccorhiza

“The beachcomber found a rare species of byssus among the tidal pools.”

3. noun

in mythology, a magical cord or thread, especially in the story of Achilles, said to have been attached to the heel of the hero

“The legend of the byssus, which tied Achilles to the earth, has been retold countless times.”