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orphrey

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /ˈɔːrfreɪ/

KK: /ˈɔrfrē/

noun
Definition

A decorative band or border, often made of elaborate embroidery, used on religious garments.


Example

The priest wore a beautiful orphrey on his vestment during the ceremony.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever seen the orphrey on that church's altar cloth?
Sloth B
Yeah, it's really beautiful and intricate!
Sloth A
I love how they use gold thread for the orphrey design.
Sloth B
It definitely adds a special touch to the whole piece.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
embroidery
ornament
trimming
Antonyms
plainness
simplicity
austerity
Root Explanation

Orphrey comes from the Old French 'orfreis' (meaning an ornamental band or border) and is derived from the Latin 'aurifrigium' (meaning gold embroidery). The word refers to a decorative band or border, often found on vestments or religious garments, typically made of gold or richly embroidered fabric.

Memory Tip

Imagine a beautiful 'ornamental band' ('orfreis') that adds a touch of elegance to religious garments, helping you remember that 'orphrey' refers to a decorative border.

Visually Confused Words

No commonly confused words.

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