Pronunciation: [ˈaɡɹe͡ɪf] (IPA) 
The word "agrafe" is spelled with the letter "g" pronounced as a soft "j" sound, just like in "giraffe". This is because "agrafe" comes from the French language, where the "g" is always pronounced this way when it comes before an "r" or an "e". The correct IPA phonetic transcription for "agrafe" is /aɡʁaf/, where the "ɡ" sound is the soft "j" sound we mentioned earlier.
An agrafe is a small decorative fastening, typically made of metal, used to hold together the edges of fabric or leather without the need for stitching. It is generally shaped like a loop or a hook, designed to catch onto adjacent components and secure them in place. Agrafes can be found in various forms, such as buckles, clasps, or hooks, and are commonly used in fashion and upholstery to add an elegant and functional touch to garments, bags, shoes, or furnishings.
The term "agrafe" originated from the French word "agraffe," which means "clasp" or "hook." It has been borrowed by the English language to describe this specific type of fastener. Agrafes often exhibit intricate designs, featuring patterns, gemstones, or other embellishments, to enhance their aesthetic appeal. They can be made from a variety of materials, including gold, silver, brass, or plastic, and are usually crafted with precision to ensure their durability and reliability.
In addition to their decorative function, agrafes serve a practical purpose by securely joining materials together. They enable the creation of seamless closures, eliminating the need for traditional sewing or stitching methods. Agrafe fastenings can be found in traditional clothing styles, historical costumes, as well as modern fashion, adding both style and convenience to the final product. Furthermore, agrafes have also been employed in bookbinding to hold pages together and in jewelry-making to connect different components of a piece.
The word "agrafe" has its origins in the French language. It comes from the Old French term "agrafe", which means a hook or clasp. This Old French term itself derived from the Late Latin word "agraffa", meaning a hook, loop, or fastening device. The word "agraffa" was borrowed from the Greek word "agraphein", which means to fasten or attach.
