a species of rush (Stipa tenacissima) which abounds in the south of Spain, where it is manufactured into cordage, mats, matting, baskets, sacks, &c. The light shoes called alpargates, so much used by the Spanish peasantry, are made of this material. Cables made of esparto are said to be excellent; and as from their lightness they float on the surface of the water, they are less liable than hempen cables to be cut or injured by a foul bottom. These cables are used exclusively in the Spanish navy.