Qiviuq [sg] or
qiviut [pl] ( ;
Inuktitut syllabics, ᕿᕕᐅᖅ;
Inuinnaqtun,
qiviuq;
Inupiaq qiviu or
qiviuq sometimes spelled
qiveut) is an Inuktitut word commonly used to indicate the
wool of the
muskox. The word was originally used to refer to the
down feathers of birds as well as the inner wool of the muskox. It is valued for its use as a
fiber as, unlike
sheep's wool, it does not shrink in water at any temperature. (However, this means that it also is not useful for
felting.) It is most commonly used for hats and scarves, and is among the softest wools. It is very expensive; a high quality knitted scarf can cost more than 300 U.S. dollars, but will last over 20 years with good care.