epergne

[ ih-purn, ey-pairn ]

noun

1. an ornamental piece for the center of a table, for holding fruit, flowers, etc.

epergne

/ ɪˈpɜːn /

noun

1. an ornamental centrepiece for a table: a stand with holders for sweetmeats, fruit, flowers, etc

Word History and Origins

Origin of epergne¹

1755–65; perhaps < French épargne treasury, saving, noun derivative of épargner to save < Germanic; compare German sparen to save, spare

Word History and Origins

Origin of epergne¹

C18: probably from French épargne a saving, from épargner to economize, of Germanic origin; compare spare

Example Sentences

There were fruit and nuts and raisins in a great silver epergne, with fat cupids making love among garlands.

From Project Gutenberg

A vase of flowers or a basket of growing plants can replace the epergne.

From Project Gutenberg

A massive gold epergne of choicest Italian art, the gift of La Pompadour, stood on the centre of the table.

From Project Gutenberg

The epergne was a beautiful thing of crystal and gold, a celebrated work of art, regarded as an exquisite possession.

From Project Gutenberg

The very mats are mirrors, the crystal drops of the epergne flash like diamonds.

From Project Gutenberg