isinglass noun. ['ʌɪzɪŋglɑ:s] M16.
[Alt. (with assim. to glass) of early Dutch huysenblas, from huysen, huys sturgeon + blas (now blaas) bladder (cf. German Hausenblase).]
1. A firm whitish semitransparent substance, a comparatively pure form of gelatin, obtained from the swim-bladders of some freshwater fishes, esp. the sturgeon, and used in cookery for making jellies etc., for clarifying liquors, in the manufacture of glue, and for other purposes. Also, any of several similar substances made from hides, hoofs, etc. M16.

2. Mica (from its resembling in appearance some kinds of isinglass). M17.

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