thistledown (noun)

1. In the cartoon, the protagonist floats on a thistledown that carries him through the air.

2. The anime character creates a mesmerizing visual effect by manipulating floating thistledown.

3. The horror movie uses thistledown as a haunting symbol of impending danger.

4. In the comic strip, a mischievous character uses thistledown to play pranks on others.