mercerize

To treat (cotton thread) with sodium hydroxide so as to shrink the fiber and increase its luster and affinity for dye.

To treat (cotton fiber or fabrics) with a solution of caustic alkali according to the method of mercerization. Also spelled mercerise.

To treat (cotton fiber or fabrics) with a solution of caustic alkali. Such treatment causes the fiber to shrink in length and become stronger and more receptive of dyes. If the yarn or cloth is kept under tension during the process, it assumes a silky luster.

To treat cotton fabric with sodium hydroxide to make it more lustrous and accepting of dyes.

treat to strengthen and improve the luster