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

He rowed, always keeping his bow towards the far-off spangle of lights which showed where the Trunella lay at anchor.

From Project Gutenberg

They might miss the spangle and sawdust of the circus, you know.

From Project Gutenberg

A thousand palm-crowned and foam-girdled reefs spangle the ocean to the north and east of Tahiti.

From Project Gutenberg

On every hand luscious lawns spread, filled with crocuses and dandelions just beginning to spangle the green.

From Project Gutenberg

And at any moment, of course, a turn of the kaleidoscope might suddenly toss a bright spangle into the grey pattern of one's days.

From Project Gutenberg