What is the long strand of wool fiber commonly referred to as?

The long strand of wool fiber is commonly referred to as a "staple." This term specifically refers to the length of wool fibers harvested from sheep, which is a critical characteristic in wool classification and grading. The staple length can greatly influence the wool's quality, marketability, and suitability for various textile applications. Wool that is longer and more uniform tends to be more desirable because it can be spun into finer yarns and contributes to the softness and durability of the final product. Understanding the concept of a staple length is essential for producers and handlers in the wool industry.

Top refers to a specific stage in wool processing where the wool fibers have been cleaned, combed, and are ready for spinning, but it does not denote the fiber itself. A lock refers to a clump or individual section of fleece that still has some natural oils, while noil denotes the shorter, broken fibers that result from the combing process. Thus, the correct term for the long strand of wool fiber is indeed “staple.”