Pronunciation: [ɛnɡɹˈe͡ɪld] (IPA) 
Engrailed is spelled as /ɛnˈɡreɪld/. The word is made up of the prefix "en-" meaning "put into," and the verb "grail" meaning "to engrave or decorate with a design." The pronunciation of the word has stress on the second syllable and is pronounced with a short "e" sound in the first syllable. The "ai" vowel combination is pronounced like the long "a" sound in "rain," and the final syllable is pronounced with a short "ld" sound.
Engrailed is an adjective that describes a specific design or pattern characterized by a series of regular and repeated curves or arcs resembling the shape of a scalloped edge or the letter "S." This term is commonly used in the field of heraldry to describe a particular type of ornamental border with a distinctive scalloping pattern. The word derives from the Old French word "engreler," which means "to curl" or "to curve."
In heraldry, the engrailed pattern is often featured on the outer edge of a shield or depicted as a decorative border surrounding a coat of arms or a crest. This design is typically created by a series of evenly spaced, inwardly curving arcs or semi-circles, which produce a distinctive "V" or sawtooth-like appearance. The engrailed pattern can vary in size and number, depending on the specific heraldic design or artistic preference.
Beyond heraldry, the term "engrailed" can also be used in a broader context to describe any decorative motif or pattern characterized by a series of curved or scalloped arcs. This can include artwork, architectural elements, or even textile designs that incorporate the distinctive engrailed shape.
Overall, engrailed is a term that pertains to a specific decorative pattern featuring repeated curved or scalloped arcs. Whether in the context of heraldry or general design, this term is used to describe an ornamental border or motif with a characteristic scalloped appearance.
Indented along the edges.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "Engrailed" originates from Old French "engrailler" or "engresler", which literally means "to form a series of semicircles" or "to outline with a curved line". It is derived from the Latin word "crispus", meaning "curved". The term was initially used in heraldry to describe a design or partition line of a shield composed of a series of repeated semicircles or scallops. Eventually, this term extended its meaning and was adopted in biology to refer to a specific pattern observed in the wings of certain insects, where each wing has a row of semicircular indentations resembling scallops, similar to the heraldic design.
