loofah
/ˈluːfə
/noun
1The fibrous matter of the fluid-transport system of a marrow-like fruit, which is dried and used as a bath sponge.Thank this angel with an array of products: bubble bath, body lotion, a loofah, and all-natural perfume or essential oil....
- We wash using the old-fashioned way - a smallish tub full of water, a ladle, a loofah, soap and shampoo.
- She was so adamant on showing me how to use this loofah that I couldn't get a word in edgewise to tell her I wasn't interested in loofahs at all.
2The tropical Old World climbing plant of the gourd family which produces loofahs, which are also edible.
- Luffa cylindrica, family Cucurbitaceae.
Origin
Late 19th century: from Egyptian Arabic lūfa, denoting the plant.