1. A cord made from the dried intestines of sheep, goats, or horses, used for strings of musical instruments and sports equipment.
Usage: Despite the name, catgut does not come from cats.; Largely replaced by synthetic materials in modern use.
2. A thin cord or string made from catgut, especially as used in violin or tennis racket strings.
Usage: Historical and musical context.

Examples

• The violin's strings were made of catgut, giving it a warm, resonant tone.
• Before synthetic materials were invented, catgut was the standard material for tennis racket strings.
• Medieval musicians relied on catgut strings for their instruments.
• The harp player replaced the worn catgut strings with modern nylon alternatives.
• Catgut was also used historically for surgical sutures in medical procedures.
• The guitar maker sourced authentic catgut to restore the antique instrument.