Hook-and-loop fasteners, also known as hook-and-pile fasteners or touch fasteners, are devices that allow two surfaces to be repeatedly fastened and unfastened, commonly used in clothing and other applications. They are often referred to by the genericized trademark velcro, which was the original name given by the inventor. The fastener consists of two components: typically, two linear fabric strips or smaller segments that are attached—sewn or otherwise adhered—to opposing surfaces designed to be fastened together. One component features tiny hooks, and the other features smaller loops. When the two are pressed together, the hooks catch in the loops, and the two pieces fasten or bind temporarily. Separation can be achieved by pulling or peeling the two surfaces apart, during which the strips produce a distinctive ripping sound.