spangle

[ spang-guhl ]

noun

1. a small, thin, often circular piece of glittering metal or other material, used especially for decorating garments.
2. any small, bright drop, object, spot, or the like.

verb (used with object)

, span·gled, span·gling.

1. to decorate with spangles.
2. to sprinkle or stud with small, bright pieces, objects, spots, etc.

verb (used without object)

, span·gled, span·gling.

1. to glitter with or like spangles.

spangle

/ ˈspæŋɡəl /

noun

1. a small thin piece of metal or other shiny material used as a decoration, esp on clothes; sequin
2. any glittering or shiny spot or object

verb

1. intr to glitter or shine with or like spangles
2. tr to decorate or cover with spangles

Derived Forms

• ˈspangly, adjective

Other Words From

• spangly adjective
• un·spangled adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of spangle¹

First recorded in 1375–1425; Middle English noun spangel(e), equivalent to spange “spangle” (perhaps from Middle Dutch spange, spaenge “brooch, clasp,” or from Old Norse spǫng “clasp, buckle, spangle”) + -le -le ( def )

Word History and Origins

Origin of spangle¹

C15: diminutive of spange, perhaps from Middle Dutch: clasp; compare Old Norse spöng

Example Sentences

Wednesday from a stage adorned with star spangled banners at his campaign headquarters in West Palm Beach, Fla.

From Los Angeles Times

A board was spangled with Polaroids of its members, who numbered more than two dozen as of October.

From Los Angeles Times

If confetti supplies have plummeted, if a spangle shortage now afflicts Manhattan, blame a tent at the southwestern corner of Lincoln Center.

From New York Times

From the 1930s to the 1950s, the group blazed a spangled, sparkling path that plenty of country acts would later follow.

From New York Times

In addition to spangling the garden with colorful blooms beginning in late winter, native annuals are an ecological powerhouse.

From Seattle Times