valance
pronunciation
How to pronounce valance in British English:
UK [ˈvæləns]
How to pronounce valance in American English:
US [ˈvæləns, ˈveləns]
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- Noun:
- a decorative framework to conceal curtain fixtures at the top of a window casing
Word Origin
- valance (n.)
- piece of hanging, decorative drapery, mid-15c., of uncertain origin, probably from Anglo-French *valaunce, valence, from valer "go down, let down," variant of Old French avaler "descend, go down;" or possibly from the plural of Old French avalant, from present participle of avaler "go down." The notion is of something "hanging down." Not now considered to be from the name of Valence in southwestern France, which is from the Roman personal name Valentius. Related: Valenced.
Example
- 1. No step heard , no spring valance raised .
- 2. But this machine 's response is so quick , it 's hard to valance .