What is a defining property of cotton, a natural fiber?

Cotton is well-known for its strong absorbency, making it a defining characteristic of this natural fiber. This trait allows cotton to effectively wick moisture away from the skin, which is particularly beneficial in clothing and textiles used in warm climates or for athletic wear. The absorbent nature of cotton also contributes to its comfort and breathability, enhancing its popularity in everyday fabrics.

While other properties may exist, such as wrinkle resistance or insulation, they are not defining traits of cotton. Cotton tends to crease easily compared to synthetic fibers designed to resist wrinkling, and while it provides some insulation, it is not particularly regarded for this property compared to other fibers like wool. The amorphous structure refers more to the arrangement of polymer chains in certain fibers, but in the context of cotton's absorbency, it is the fiber's inherent structure—and the fact that it is primarily cellulose—that allows it to hold water effectively.