Ixtle

Istle, also ixtle, ixtli: A valuable fibre obtained (in Mexico and Central America) from Bromelia sylvestris and species of Agave, as A. Ixtli, and used for cordage, nets, carpets, etc. Also attrib., as istle fibre, plant; istle-grass, a name for Bromelia sylvestris.

Have you ever used this word in regular conversation? Me neither. Ever hear of it? Me neither.

A friend hit me with this word last night playing Scrabble on Facebook. He's going to win (as usual), but isn't it a great one? I just had to share. Happy Scrabbling!