balloon shade

noun

: a decorative window shade in which the fabric at the bottom of the shade drapes in loose, puffy scallops because two or more points across its width are held higher than the rest of the bottom edge

Note: In a typical balloon shade, the fabric on the lower part of the shade hangs from several tiers of points stacked one above the other, giving an effect of layered scallops.

Word History

First Known Use

1960, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of balloon shade was in 1960

Love words?

You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.

Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:

  • More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
  • Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
  • Advanced search features
  • Ad free!

Dictionary Entries Near balloon shade

Cite this Entry

“Balloon shade.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/balloon%20shade. Accessed 19 Apr. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!