valance

va·lance

noun \ˈva-lən(t)s, ˈvā-\

Definition of VALANCE

1

: a drapery hung along the edge of a bed, table, altar, canopy, or shelf

2

: a short drapery or wood or metal frame used as a decorative heading to conceal the top of curtains and fixtures

— va·lanced \-lən(t)st\ adjective

Illustration of VALANCE

Origin of VALANCE

Middle English valaunce, from Anglo-French valence, probably from valer to lower — more at vail

First Known Use: 15th century

Other Household Terms

cruet, curiosity, duvet, fiasco, sham, taper, whatnot

Rhymes with VALANCE

balance