furbelow

[ fur-buh-loh ]

noun

1. a ruffle or flounce, as on a woman's skirt or petticoat.
2. any bit of showy trimming or finery.

verb (used with object)

1. to ornament with or as if with furbelows.

furbelow

/ ˈfɜːbɪˌləʊ /

noun

1. a flounce, ruffle, or other ornamental trim
2. often plural showy ornamentation

verb

1. tr to put a furbelow on (a garment)

Other Words From

• un·furbe·lowed adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of furbelow¹

First recorded in 1670–80; variant of falbala

Word History and Origins

Origin of furbelow¹

C18: by folk etymology from French dialect farbella ; see falbala

Example Sentences

The tantalizing close-ups of tulle, feathers and other furbelows cry out for an edition with paper dolls.

From New York Times

“Well, I don’t know that fifty is much for a dress, with all the furbelows and notions you have to have to finish it off these days.”

From Literature

Modern elements temper the fussiness of frills and furbelows while showcasing their features, and allow you to create personal spaces that aren’t stuck in a single style.

From Seattle Times

“Eh—what? Oh, get along, girl, get along. I’ve no time for such frills and furbelows.”

From Literature

Daley described how Yankee Stadium would be dressed up for the day with “extra flourishes and furbelows.”

From New York Times

Related Words

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