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Aigrette: meaning, definitions and examples

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aigrette

 

[ ˈeɪɡrɛt ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

fashion accessory

An aigrette is a type of ornamental plume or feather worn on the head or as part of clothing. It is often associated with luxury and elegance, commonly used in fashion accessories like hats, tiaras, and other headgear. Traditionally, aigrettes were made from delicate feathers and were showcased during formal events, adding a touch of sophistication to the wearer's attire. In modern fashion, aigrettes may also refer to jeweled or decorative ornaments that replicate the original feather design.

Synonyms

feather ornament, headpiece, plume

Examples of usage

  • She wore an elegant tiara adorned with an aigrette for the gala.
  • The fashion designer incorporated an aigrette into the evening gown's headdress.
  • Aigrettes were a popular trend in the 1920s among flapper girls.
Context #2 | Noun

bird feature

In ornithology, an aigrette refers to specific types of feathers found on birds, particularly in herons and egrets. These feathers are typically long and slender and serve a function in attracting mates during the breeding season. The aigrette features in some bird species display elaborate plumes that enhance the bird's visual appeal, showcasing the beauty and diversity of avian life. These feathers can often be seen fluttering elegantly during mating displays.

Synonyms

crest, feather, plume

Examples of usage

  • The egret displayed its beautiful aigrette feathers during the courtship dance.
  • Birdwatchers were thrilled to spot the heron sporting its stunning aigrette.
  • During spring, the male birds grow aigrettes to attract potential mates.

Translations

Translations of the word "aigrette" in other languages:

🇵🇹 garça

🇮🇳 अग्नि

🇩🇪 Reiher

🇮🇩 burung bangau

🇺🇦 чапля

🇵🇱 bocian

🇯🇵 アオサギ

🇫🇷 aigrette

🇪🇸 garza

🇹🇷 sulun

🇰🇷 왜가리

🇸🇦 مالك الحزين

🇨🇿 čáp

🇸🇰 čáp

🇨🇳 白鹭

🇸🇮 čaplja

🇮🇸 stork

🇰🇿 Аққу

🇬🇪 ბუღა

🇦🇿 bulaq

🇲🇽 garza

Etymology

The word 'aigrette' comes from the French term 'aigrette', originally meaning a 'heron' or 'egret'. It is derived from the Old French word 'aigret', which is rooted in the Latin word 'alba', meaning 'white', reflecting the commonly referenced white heron species. Over time, the word evolved in its application to describe ornamental feathers, particularly those worn as fashion accessories. In the late 18th to early 19th centuries, aigrettes became fashionable among the aristocracy in Europe, symbolizing status and refinement. The tradition of wearing elegant plumes in headpieces has persisted, and aigrette remains a prominent term in both fashion and ornithology, reflecting its dual heritage.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #39,323, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.