Definition

Noun: 1. A type of bobbin lace with floral patterns: Valenciennes lace is a fine, lightweight lace traditionally made with linen thread. It is characterized by its floral or geometric designs created on a net background, all woven together in one continuous piece without any added outlining cord.

Examples of Usage

• The bride's veil was edged with exquisite valenciennes lace.
• This antique collar is made from delicate valenciennes lace.
• The museum's collection includes several 18th-century garments trimmed with valenciennes lace.

Advanced Usage

• The term can be used attributively (like an adjective) to describe other nouns.
  • She wore a dress with valenciennes lace trim.
  • He collects valenciennes lace samples.

Variants and Related Words

• Valenciennes (noun): Often used as a shortened form to refer to the same type of lace.
  • The handkerchief was bordered with fine Valenciennes.
• Bobbin lace (noun): The broader category of lace made by twisting and plaiting threads wound on bobbins, within which Valenciennes is a specific type.
• Lace (noun): The general term for a delicate fabric made of yarn or thread in an open weblike pattern.

Synonyms

• Bobbin lace
• Lace (general term)

Notes on Meaning

• The name originates from the city of Valenciennes in northern France, which was a major historic center for its production.
• It is distinguished from other laces by its specific technique (all one piece, without a corded outline) and its characteristic floral motifs on a diamond-mesh net ground.

Noun

1. a type of bobbin lace with floral patterns