The word "frill" is a commonly misspelled word. It is spelled with two "l's" and no "e," despite its pronunciation. The IPA phonetic transcription for "frill" is /frɪl/. The "f" is a voiceless labiodental fricative, the "r" is an alveolar approximant, the "i" is a lax front unrounded vowel, and the "l" is an alveolar lateral approximant. The spelling of "frill" may seem counterintuitive, but it is important to remember for clear communication in writing.
Frill can be defined as a decorative or ornamental feature that is added to an object or garment, primarily for the purpose of embellishment. It is a type of trim or adornment typically seen in clothing, curtains, or furnishings, comprised of a gathered or ruffled strip of fabric or material that is added as an embellishment for aesthetic purposes.
Frills can be found in various forms, such as flounces, ruffles, or pleats, and are commonly seen on the edges or along the seams of garments, adding a decorative touch. They often give a sense of elegance, delicacy, or femininity to the item they are attached to.
Furthermore, frills can also refer to excessive or unnecessary ornamental details that are deemed as superfluous or extravagant. In this context, it refers to superficial embellishments or decorative elements that are considered excessive or unnecessary, adding only aesthetic value without any particular functionality.
The term "frill" is derived from the Middle French word "fréner," which means "to prink" or "to curl." It gained popularity during the late 16th century and has since become a common term used to describe various decorative elements used in fashion, design, or aesthetics.
• A plaited band to a garment; a ruffle.
• To attach a frill to; to ruffle with cold, as a hawk her feathers.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word frill originates from the Middle English term frille, which first appeared in the 14th century. It derived from the Old French word froil, which referred to a rim or edge. The Old French term itself likely came from the Old High German word frilla, meaning a wrinkled edge. Ultimately, the origin of frill can be traced back to the Germanic root thrij-, which conveyed the sense of to turn or to twist.