falbala

Also fal·be·lo

[fal-buh-luh]

noun

1. a furbelow or puckered flounce for decorating dresses in the 17th century.

falbala

/ ˈfælbələ /

noun

1. a gathered flounce, frill, or ruffle

Word History and Origins

Origin of falbala¹

1695–1705; < French < Italian. See furbelow

Word History and Origins

Origin of falbala¹

C18: from French, from (dialect) ferbelà ; see _furbelow

Example Sentences

See how they rise at the sight,     Thronging the OEil de Boeuf through, Courtiers as butterflies bright,     Beauties that Fragonard drew, Talon-rouge, falbala, queue,     Cardinal, Duke,—to a man,     Eager to sigh or to sue,— This was the Pompadour's fan!

Read more on Project Gutenberg

Falbala, fal′ba-la, n. a trimming for women's petticoats: a furbelow.

Read more on Project Gutenberg

It., and Sp. falbala; of unknown origin.

Read more on Project Gutenberg

In bridal coronet, Lace, ribbons, and coquette Falbala; Were Romney's limning true, What a lucky dog were you, Grandpapa!

Read more on Project Gutenberg

See how they rise at the sight, Thronging the Œil de Bœuf through, Courtiers as butterflies bright, Beauties that Fragonard drew; Talon rouge, falbala, queue, Cardinal Duke,—to a man, Eager to sigh or to sue,— This was the Pompadour’s fan.

Read more on Project Gutenberg