How Do You Spell PURFLING?

Pronunciation: [pˈɜːflɪŋ] (IPA)

"Purfling" is a term used in the art of crafting stringed instruments, such as the violin or guitar. The word is pronounced /ˈpɜːflɪŋ/ and spelled with a "u" after the "p," which may confuse some English speakers who are used to seeing "perfling." However, this spelling reflects the word's French origins, where it is spelled "pourfiler." Purfling refers to the decorative inlay that borders the edges of the instrument's body, and is a defining characteristic of its appearance.

PURFLING Meaning and Definition

1. Purfling is a term primarily associated with the field of luthiery, referring to a decorative inlay that is commonly found on the edges of certain stringed instruments, most notably the violin family. It consists of a narrow strip made of ebony or other types of wood, often with contrasting colors, and is meticulously fitted and glued into a channel carved into the edge of the instrument's body.

   The primary purpose of purfling is to reinforce the edges of the instrument, providing stability and protecting them from potential cracks or damage caused by everyday wear and tear as well as changes in humidity and temperature. However, purfling also serves an important aesthetic function, accentuating the outline of the instrument and enhancing its visual appeal.

   Typically, purfling consists of multiple strips, with the central strip called the purfling or inlay, flanked by two thinner strips called the outer purflings. The central purfling often features intricate patterns, such as alternating black and white lines or herringbone motifs.

   The creation and installation of purfling require meticulous craftsmanship and precision. It is often one of the final steps in the construction process of a stringed instrument, where experienced luthiers carefully cut and fit the purfling into the channel. The purfling is then glued into place and carefully trimmed, bringing the instrument's construction to completion and adding the final touch to its appearance.

2. Showing a border.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for PURFLING

• lurfling
• -urfling
• 0urfling
• pyrfling
• phrfling
• pjrfling
• p8rfling
• p7rfling
• puefling
• pudfling
• pu5fling
• pu4fling
• purdling
• purcling
• purvling
• purgling
• purtling
• purrling
• purfking
• purfping

Etymology of PURFLING

The word "purfling" is derived from the Old French word "pourfiler", which is a combination of "por" meaning "around" and "filer" meaning "to thread" or "to string". The term was incorporated into English in the late 16th century. Originally, "pourfiler" referred to an ornamental border or edging on clothing or textiles. Over time, the term began to be used specifically in relation to the decorative inlaid strip found around the edges of musical instruments such as violins, cellos, and guitars.

Plural form of PURFLING is PURFLINGS