valance

noun

va·​lance ˈva-lən(t)s  ˈvā- 

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

valanced

ˈva-lən(t)st 

ˈvā-

adjective

Illustration of valance

• V valance 1

Examples of valance in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

West Elm’s flax linen curtain set also leans more pared back, but the valance detailing gives it a little extra oomph. —Audrey Lee, Architectural Digest, 19 Sep. 2025

Plus, Budget Blinds also carries a variety of drapes and valances. —Liz Ohanesian, Oc Register, 19 Sep. 2025

Some key features of the F Sport Package: Exterior: The F Sport package adds a unique front grill, a rear valance panel, special bumpers and F Sport badging. —Tony Leopardo, Mercury News, 3 Aug. 2025

Ten windows provide ample natural light and are paired with Alcantara valances to control the amount of light. —Daniel Cote, Robb Report, 4 June 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English valaunce, borrowed from Anglo-French valence, probably from valer "to lower" + -ence, -ance -ance — more at vail

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for valance

• balance
• vallance
• counterbalance
• overbalance
• imbalance
• rebalance
• unbalance

Kids Definition

valance

noun

va·​lance ˈval-ən(t)s  ˈvāl- 

: a short drapery or wood or metal frame (as across the top of a window)