Definition

1. Noun:

   • Delicate and intricate ornamentation: A type of ornamental work, typically made from fine, twisted wires of gold, silver, or other metals, soldered together to form a lacy, openwork design.
   • Something delicate and intricate: Anything that resembles this fine metalwork in its delicacy and complexity.

2. Verb:

   • To adorn with or make filigree: The act of creating or decorating something with this delicate, lacy metalwork.

Usage Examples

• Noun:

  • The antique brooch was decorated with exquisite silver filigree.
  • The frost on the windowpane formed a beautiful, natural filigree.

• Verb:

  • The artisan will filigree the pendant with fine gold wire.
  • The iron gate was filigreed with intricate floral patterns.

Advanced Usage

• "Filigree" as a metaphor: Used to describe anything of great delicacy and intricate detail, not made of metal.
  • The author's prose was a filigree of complex emotions and subtle observations.

Variants and Related Words

• Filigreed (adj): Adorned with or resembling filigree.
  • The filigreed frame made the mirror look antique.
• Filagree: An alternative, less common spelling of "filigree."

Synonyms

• Lacework: Openwork fabric or design resembling lace.
• Tracery: Ornamental stone openwork, especially in Gothic windows.
• Arabesque: An intricate, ornamental design of intertwined flowing lines.

Related Phrases

• Filigree work: The craft or product of making filigree.
  • She specializes in traditional filigree work.

Noun

1. delicate and intricate ornamentation (usually in gold or silver or other fine twisted wire)

Verb

1. make filigree, as with a precious metal