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definitions

openwork

[oh-puh n-wurk]
See more synonyms for openwork on Thesaurus.com
noun
  1. any kind of work, especially ornamental, as of embroidery, lace, metal, stone, or wood, having a latticelike nature or showing openings through its substance.

Origin of openwork

First recorded in 1590–1600; open + work
Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2018

Related Words for openwork

mesh, ornament, filigree, screen, network, trim, edging, border, netting, net, trimming, tissue, openwork, crochet, tatting, grill, web, frame, grid

Examples from the Web for openwork

Historical Examples of openwork

  • Openwork in relief, when elaborated and minute in all its parts.

  • There is an openwork balustrade which surrounds the platform of the bell tower.

  • His trousers were gray rayon, and his footgear was openwork sandals.

    The Golden Skull

    John Blaine

  • Her openwork stockings were drawn so tight that the skin there also gleamed white.

    A Bed of Roses

    W. L. George

  • It is surmounted by a crown wrought in openwork and of a fine effect.

British Dictionary definitions for openwork

openwork

noun
  1. ornamental work, as of metal or embroidery, having a pattern of openings or holes
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012