INSIDER
Published on 10 Jan 2019
Duct tapes were first invented by a female factory worker during World War II. They were originally called ‘duck’ tape because it was made out of a cotton duck fabric and it repelled water like a duck’s back.

Following is a transcript of the video.

Narrator: Duct tape can hold just about anything together. We use it for all sorts of repairs and even as a decorative addition to various arts and crafts. But what makes duct tape so strong and versatile? And is it duct tape or duck tape? The tape was originally called duck tape because of its water-resistant qualities. It repelled water like a duck’s back, and it used to be made out of a cotton duck fabric without any adhesive layers. But cotton duck fabric doesn’t actually come from ducks.[…]