falbala

[ fal-buh-luh ]

noun

1. a furbelow or puckered flounce for decorating dresses in the 17th century.

falbala

/ ˈfælbələ /

noun

1. a gathered flounce, frill, or ruffle

Word History and Origins

Origin of falbala¹

1695–1705; < French < Italian. See furbelow

Word History and Origins

Origin of falbala¹

C18: from French, from (dialect) ferbelà ; see furbelow

Example Sentences

See how they rise at the sight,     Thronging the OEil de Boeuf through, Courtiers as butterflies bright,     Beauties that Fragonard drew, Talon-rouge, falbala, queue,     Cardinal, Duke,—to a man,     Eager to sigh or to sue,— This was the Pompadour's fan!

From Project Gutenberg

Falbala, fal′ba-la, n. a trimming for women's petticoats: a furbelow.

From Project Gutenberg

It., and Sp. falbala; of unknown origin.

From Project Gutenberg

In bridal coronet, Lace, ribbons, and coquette Falbala; Were Romney's limning true, What a lucky dog were you, Grandpapa!

From Project Gutenberg

See how they rise at the sight, Thronging the Œil de Bœuf through, Courtiers as butterflies bright, Beauties that Fragonard drew; Talon rouge, falbala, queue, Cardinal Duke,—to a man, Eager to sigh or to sue,— This was the Pompadour’s fan.

From Project Gutenberg