furbelow
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈfɜːr.bə.loʊ/
KK: /ˈfɜrˌbeloʊ/
noun
Definition
A decorative piece of material, often ruffled or flounced, used to embellish clothing or other items.
Example
She added a furbelow to her dress to make it more stylish.
Conversation
I saw a dress today that had this amazing furbelow on the hem.
Really? That sounds unique!
Yeah, it added such a nice touch to the whole outfit.
I love when clothes have that kind of detail.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
ruffle
flounce
ornament
Antonyms
plainness
simplicity
austerity
transitive verb
Definition
To add a decorative ruffle or flounce to something, often to enhance its appearance.
Example
She decided to furbelow the dress to make it look more elegant.
Tense Forms
Past: furbelowed
Past Participle: furbelowed
Conversation
I just bought this dress, but I think it needs something more.
You could definitely furbelow it with some lace or ruffles.
That’s a great idea! I want it to look a bit more fancy.
Root Explanation
Furbelow → The word originates from the French *froufrou*, meaning a rustling or fluttering sound, which refers to the decorative trimming or flounce on clothing. It describes a type of ornamental fabric that creates a fluttering effect.
Memory Tip
Imagine the sound of fabric 'rustling' ('froufrou') to remember that 'furbelow' refers to a decorative trim that flutters.
Visually Confused Words
unfurbelowed
forblow
befurbelowed