Fringe Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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fringe
[frɪn(d)ʒ ]
Definitions
hair
An ornamental border of threads left loose or formed into tassels or twists, used to edge clothing or material.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| fringe |
Often used to describe the outer edge of a group, area, or subject, particularly when it involves elements that are not central or mainstream.
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| edging |
Used to refer to the decorative or protective trim attached to the edge of an object, often in fashion or textiles.
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| trim |
Refers to a finish or decoration added to the edges of materials, often used in fashion, interiors, or vehicles. Sometimes, it can also mean to make something neat by cutting away excess.
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| border |
Typically used to describe the line or boundary separating two areas, such as countries or regions.
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Examples of usage
- The dress was decorated with a fringe of beads.
- She wore a shawl with a fringe along the edges.
group
A group or area that is different or separate from the main part.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| fringe |
This looks like a duplicate entry, please check the input for possible errors. |
| periphery |
Use 'periphery' to talk about the outer edge or boundary of an area, but this term can also be used in more abstract contexts.
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| edge |
Use 'edge' to indicate the boundary or the very end of something, usually a physical object or location.
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| outskirts |
Use 'outskirts' to describe areas situated on the outer parts of a city or town.
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Examples of usage
- The experimental theatre group operated on the fringe of mainstream society.
- The house is on the fringe of the city, close to the countryside.
hair
To have a fringe or bangs cut in the hair.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| fringe |
Commonly used in British English to describe the hair that falls over the forehead.
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| bangs |
Used in American English to refer to the hair over the forehead.
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| cut |
A general term for reducing the length of hair or making a change in hairstyle.
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| trim |
Used to describe a minor haircut meant to maintain or tidy up a style rather than change it.
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Examples of usage
- She decided to fringe her hair to frame her face better.
- The hairstyle fringed her face beautifully.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Culture
- In performing arts, 'fringe' often refers to smaller, alternative theaters or festivals that showcase unconventional works, like the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.
- Fringe fashion includes styles that are unconventional or edgy, often used by those wanting to express individualism.
Psychology
- The term 'fringe' can describe the periphery of attention – the things we notice but don't focus on directly.
- In studies of perception, the fringe area of awareness can show what thought processes happen outside our immediate focus.
Science
- In biology, 'fringe' can refer to the branched structures of certain organisms, such as fringing coral reefs that develop around islands.
- Fringe theories in science refer to ideas that exist on the outskirts of mainstream acceptance, pushing the boundaries of established thought.
Literature
- Fringe characters in a story are those who might not be the main focus but add depth and richness to the narrative.
- Many literary movements, such as Postmodernism, explore fringe ideas and themes, challenging the traditional norms of storytelling.
Origin of 'fringe'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Old French 'fringe' meaning 'border' or 'edge', and can be traced back to the Latin term 'fringere', meaning 'to break'.
- Historically, the term was used to describe the ornamental edges of clothing and textiles, emphasizing decorative elements.
The word 'fringe' originated from the Middle English word 'frenge', which came from Old French 'frenge' meaning 'thread, fringe, hem', ultimately derived from the Latin word 'fimbria' meaning 'fibers, threads'. The use of fringe as an ornamental border dates back to ancient times when it was used to decorate clothing and textiles. Over the years, 'fringe' has evolved to also represent the periphery or outskirts of something, reflecting its association with borders and edges.
See also: fringes.