guilloche

noun

guil·​loche gi-ˈlōsh How to pronounce guilloche (audio) gē-ˈ(y)ōsh How to pronounce guilloche (audio)
1
: an architectural ornament formed of two or more interlaced bands with openings containing round devices
2
: a pattern (as on metalwork) made by interlacing curved lines

Illustration of guilloche

Illustration of guilloche
  • guilloche 2

Examples of guilloche in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web The writing instruments crated using traditional guilloche and lacquering techniques. Roberta Naas, Forbes, 8 Oct. 2021 The base of the dial forms the background for the off-center time dial and features a striking guilloche’ pattern. Roberta Naas, Forbes, 1 Sep. 2021 The mechanism is complemented by a gorgeous guilloche dial that adds a touch of subtle elegance. Cara Barrett, Town & Country, 21 Sep. 2018 As the dig worked eastward, a decorative ribbon known as a guilloche appeared. National Geographic, 5 July 2016 After the tour, Mr. Murphy—regarded by many as the top U.S. watchmaker—contacted the company to discuss guilloche, an age-old watchmaking decoration (also called engine turning)... Michael Clerizo, WSJ, 24 Mar. 2017 As the dig worked eastward, a decorative ribbon known as a guilloche appeared. National Geographic, 5 July 2016 NOMOS: In the watch world, tradition usually refers to the workbench practices of watchmakers: guilloche dials, Geneva stripes or beveled edges on movement bridges. Michael Clerizo, WSJ, 23 Mar. 2017

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'guilloche.' 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 guillochis

First Known Use

circa 1842, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of guilloche was circa 1842

Dictionary Entries Near guilloche

Cite this Entry

“Guilloche.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/guilloche. Accessed 18 Mar. 2024.

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