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

Bearded and black-hatted, styled not unlike Clint Eastwood in “The Good, the Bad and the Ugly,” the dramatic but quietly compelling guitarist shone on scorching solos, his metal bona fides evident on “Pigs in Zen,” his iconic fretwork shining in the epic “Three Days.”

From Los Angeles Times

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

MacMillan — like Byrd, a committed Catholic — recently wrote “Ye Sacred Muses” for the King’s Singers and Fretwork, the viol consort.

From New York Times

Related Words

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