Definitions for "Manila hemp"
A fibrous material obtained from the abaca plant (Musa textilis), a plant allied to the banana, growing in the Philippine and other East India islands; -- called also by the native name abaca. From it matting, canvas, ropes, and cables are made.
A Philippine plant (Musa textilis) having leafstalks that yield Manila hemp used for rope and paper etc.; called also the abaca.
A very fine hemp grown in the Philippine Islands.
a fibre of remarkable tenacity, of unapproached value for heavy cordage, but too stiff for small cords and twines