fretwork

[ fret-wurk ]

noun

1. ornamental work consisting of interlacing parts, especially work in which the design is formed by perforation.
2. any pattern of dark and light, such as that of perforated fretwork.

fretwork

/ ˈfrɛtˌwɜːk /

noun

1. decorative geometrical carving or openwork
2. any similar pattern of light and dark
3. ornamental work of three-dimensional frets

Word History and Origins

Origin of fretwork¹

First recorded in 1595–1605; fret ² + work

Example Sentences

Mr. Eddy influenced a multitude of rock guitarists, including George Harrison, Jimi Hendrix and Bruce Springsteen, whose plunging guitar lines on “Born to Run” pay homage to Mr. Eddy’s muscular fretwork.

From New York Times

Mr. Walker’s driving, multilayered fretwork helped propel the dark though often danceable sound of a band that helped pioneer industrial music by blending heavy metal intensity, new wave hooks and a punk taste for provocation.

From New York Times

Despite some impressive fretwork from the star, the revved up audience's attention drifts somewhat.

From BBC

Its fretwork of thin glass tubes was bent and shaped to resemble an old-fashioned bellows camera.

From Washington Post

Years later they married, and Louise displayed the cherished card, tucked into the fretwork of a bedroom dresser, for decades to come.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• color
• design
• finery
• ornament
• plaque
• ribbon
• trinket
• wreath