scrim

[ skrim ]

noun

1. a cotton or linen fabric of open weave used for bunting, curtains, etc.
2. Theater. a piece of such fabric used as a drop, border, or the like, for creating the illusion of a solid wall or backdrop under certain lighting conditions or creating a semitransparent curtain when lit from behind.

scrim

/ skrɪm /

noun

1. an open-weave muslin or hessian fabric, used in upholstery, lining, building, and in the theatre to create the illusion of a solid wall or to suggest haziness, etc, according to the lighting

Word History and Origins

Origin of scrim¹

First recorded in 1785–95; origin uncertain

Word History and Origins

Origin of scrim¹

C18: origin unknown

Example Sentences

The audience could see me through the scrim, but they couldn’t hear us.

From Los Angeles Times

A fabric scrim is stretched across nearly the entire width of a large, darkened gallery, and it reaches almost from the floor to the high ceiling.

From Los Angeles Times

A massive advertising scrim, the curtain served as a historical piece, showcasing Japanese American businesses that were in Seattle in the early 1900s.

From Seattle Times

He took the front off the building and put in a scrim and let the light do what it did.

From Los Angeles Times

In the distance, the lights of the Southland twinkled underneath a scrim of haze.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• scenery