1. plural of filature; the process of unwinding and twisting silk fibers from cocoons into thread or yarn
Usage: textile industry term; often used in historical or technical contexts
2. plural of filature; a factory or mill where silk is processed and spun into thread
Usage: textile industry term

Examples

• The Italian filatures were renowned for producing the finest silk thread in Europe.
• Traditional filatures required skilled workers to carefully unwind cocoons.
• Modern filatures have adopted automated machinery to increase production efficiency.
• The region's economy depended heavily on its numerous filatures during the 19th century.
• Filatures in Lyon became centers of innovation in silk processing techniques.