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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Above, rays of light radiate in high relief and sunburst guilloche is visible beneath the vivid hot enamel. Nancy Olson, Forbes.com, 26 June 2026 One tasteful choice is patterned aluminum trim to envelop the dash and doors, hand-engraved with a guilloche technique, similar to what’s employed on a high-end watch case. Lawrence Ulrich, Robb Report, 12 June 2026 The writing instruments crated using traditional guilloche and lacquering techniques. Roberta Naas, Forbes, 8 Oct. 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

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

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Cite this Entry

“Guilloche.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/guilloche. Accessed 30 Jun. 2026.

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