aigrette

noun

ai·​grette ā-ˈgret How to pronounce aigrette (audio)
ˈā-ˌgret
1
: a spray of feathers (as of the egret) for the head
2
: a spray of gems worn on a hat or in the hair

Examples of aigrette in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Delicate and adorned with wispy white feathers that wouldn’t come cheap, this aigrette (the French word for egret) would rest atop the head of a rich and fashionable society figure. Angela Serratore, Smithsonian, 15 May 2018

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'aigrette.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

French, plume, egret, from Middle French — more at egret

First Known Use

1631, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of aigrette was in 1631

Dictionary Entries Near aigrette

Cite this Entry

“Aigrette.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/aigrette. Accessed 29 Mar. 2024.

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