arras

¹

[ ar-uhs ]

noun

1. a rich tapestry.
2. a tapestry weave.
3. a wall hanging, as a tapestry or similar object.
4. Theater. a curtain suspended loosely across a stage and used as a backdrop or part of a stage setting.

arras

²

[ ahr-ahs; Spanish ahr-rahs ]

noun

, (used with a singular verb)

1. a gift presented at marriage by a husband to his wife in consideration of her dowry.

Arras

³

[ ar-uhs; French a-rahs ]

noun

1. a city in and capital of Pas-de-Calais, in N France: battles in World War I.

Arras

¹

/ arɑs; ˈærəs /

noun

1. a town in N France: formerly famous for tapestry; severely damaged in both World Wars. Pop: 40 590 (1999)

arras

²

/ ˈærəs /

noun

1. a wall hanging, esp of tapestry

Other Words From

• arrased adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of arras¹

1375–1425; late Middle English, named after Arras

Origin of arras²

< Spanish: literally, earnest money. See earnest ²

Example Sentences

A smaller doorway, hung with arras of black, is on the left, well toward the front.

From Project Gutenberg

It is a noticeable fact that Picardy (Arras and Noyon) furnished both these instruments of reformation!

From Project Gutenberg

This personage, to whom many of the churches in this district have been dedicated, was Bishop of Arras in the 6th century.

From Project Gutenberg

The word arras comes from Arras, a town in France, which was famous for its beautiful tapestries.

From Project Gutenberg

Other accounts bear, that it was upon the Bishop of Arras he drew his sword; which is a somewhat different matter.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• drapery