sequin

noun

se·​quin ˈsē-kwən 

1

: an old gold coin of Italy and Turkey

2

: a small plate of shining metal or plastic used for ornamentation especially on clothing

Examples of sequin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

In addition to fall-perfect dresses and separates, there are also plenty of chances to plan ahead for holiday dressing with lush velvet dresses with plaid trim, sparkly sequin numbers, voluminous ruffled minidresses and more. — Kelsey Legg, ABC News, 1 Sep. 2026

There’s also been lots of moments to dress up for too, with megawatt tours from Harry Styles, Ariana Grande, and Zara Larsson; maximalist pop stars with fans eager to follow their lead in sequins and ties, hibiscus flowers in hair. — Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 31 Aug. 2026

Embellished Pieces To prevent damage to garments embellished with sequins, beading, or other detailing, Ceconi advises turning them inside out before washing. — Louise Parks, Martha Stewart, 29 Aug. 2026

Her clothes are simple but bright, with sometimes a bit of shiny thread or a sprinkling of sequins; décolletage is a thing of the future. — Robert Lloyd, Los Angeles Times, 26 Aug. 2026

Word History

Etymology

French, from Italian zecchino, from zecca mint, from Arabic (dār al-) sikka, literally, house of the minting die

First Known Use

1617, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

sequin

noun

se·​quin ˈsē-kwən 

: a small piece of shiny metal or plastic used as an ornament especially on clothes