rinceau

noun

rin·​ceau
raⁿˈsō
plural rinceaux
-ō(z)
: an ornamental motif consisting essentially of a sinuous and branching scroll elaborated with leaves and other natural forms (as derived from the acanthus)

Word History

Etymology

French, from Middle French rainsel branch, from (assumed) Vulgar Latin ramuscellus, alteration of Late Latin ramusculus small branch, diminutive of ramus branch

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Cite this Entry

“Rinceau.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rinceau. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

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