lath(n = noun.artifact) - a narrow thin strip of wood used as backing for plaster or to make latticework;
is a kind of slat, spline
is a part of fretwork, lattice, latticework
A thin, narrow strip of wood, nailed to the rafters, studs, or floor beams of a building, for the purpose of supporting the tiles, plastering, etc. A corrugated metallic strip or plate is sometimes used. [1913 Webster]
To cover or line with laths. [1913 Webster]
lath, n. & v.
--n. (pl. laths) a thin flat strip of wood, esp. each of a series forming a framework or support for plaster etc.
--v.tr. attach laths to (a wall or ceiling).
Idiom:
lath and plaster a common material for interior walls and ceilings etc.
Etymology:
OE l{aelig}tt
N filament, line, fiber, fibril, funicle, vein, hair, capillament, cilium, cilia, pilus, pili, tendril, gossamer, hair stroke, veinlet, venula, venule, wire, string, thread, packthread, cotton, sewing silk, twine, twist, whipcord, tape, ribbon, cord, rope, yarn, hemp, oakum, jute, strip, shred, slip, spill, list, band, fillet, fascia, ribbon, riband, roll, lath, splinter, shiver, shaving, beard, ramification, strand, filamentous, filamentiferous, filaceous, filiform, fibrous, fibrillous, thread-like, wiry, stringy, ropy, capillary, capilliform, funicular, wire-drawn, anguilliform, flagelliform, hairy, taeniate, taeniform, taenioid, venose, venous.