| bast (def. 2). |
[bast] 
| 1. | Botany. phloem. |
| 2. | Also called bast fiber. any of several strong, woody fibers, as flax, hemp, ramie, or jute, obtained from phloem tissue and used in the manufacture of woven goods and cordage. |
| bast fiber n. Any of various durable fibers found in the phloem of certain plants, especially flax, hemp, and jute, used in making rope and baskets. |
