Given the date of origin and the word itself, it must be related to the Verdi opera, but the actual connection is, as the etymology notes, “unclear”. Cool word, though.
Good opera, too.
Aida, n.
Although the chronology suggests a connection with Verdi’s opera, the reason for this is now unclear…
Needlework and Embroidery.
A loosely woven linen cloth with an even mesh, traditionally used in cross-stitch embroidery. Frequently attrib., esp. in Aida cloth. Cf. Java canvas n. at JAVA n.5.
Neh 