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Fringe: meaning, definitions and examples

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fringe

 

[frɪn(d)ʒ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

hair

An ornamental border of threads left loose or formed into tassels or twists, used to edge clothing or material.

Synonyms

border, edging, trim.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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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.

  • The activists were considered to be on the fringe of the political movement
  • The festival took place on the fringes of the city
edging

Used to refer to the decorative or protective trim attached to the edge of an object, often in fashion or textiles.

  • The tablecloth had a delicate lace edging
  • She added some edging to the curtains to make them look more elegant
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.

  • He added some velvet trim to the coat
  • They trimmed the hedges in the garden
border

Typically used to describe the line or boundary separating two areas, such as countries or regions.

  • We crossed the border into Canada last night
  • The fence marks the border of the property

Examples of usage

  • The dress was decorated with a fringe of beads.
  • She wore a shawl with a fringe along the edges.
Context #2 | Noun

group

A group or area that is different or separate from the main part.

Synonyms

edge, outskirts, periphery.

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Word Description / Examples
fringe

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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.

  • His interests lie on the periphery of mainstream science
edge

Use 'edge' to indicate the boundary or the very end of something, usually a physical object or location.

  • He stood at the edge of the cliff, looking at the vast ocean below
outskirts

Use 'outskirts' to describe areas situated on the outer parts of a city or town.

  • They recently moved to a house on the outskirts of the city to find more peace and quiet

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.
Context #3 | Verb

hair

To have a fringe or bangs cut in the hair.

Synonyms

bangs, cut, trim.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
fringe

Commonly used in British English to describe the hair that falls over the forehead.

  • She decided to get a fringe to change up her look.
  • The fringe framed her face perfectly.
bangs

Used in American English to refer to the hair over the forehead.

  • She always wanted to try bangs but was afraid to cut her hair.
  • I think bangs would look great on you!
cut

A general term for reducing the length of hair or making a change in hairstyle.

  • I need to get a cut before the wedding.
  • She loves her new bob cut.
trim

Used to describe a minor haircut meant to maintain or tidy up a style rather than change it.

  • I just need a trim, not a full haircut.
  • She goes to the salon every few weeks for a trim.

Examples of usage

  • She decided to fringe her hair to frame her face better.
  • The hairstyle fringed her face beautifully.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • 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.

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.

Translations

Translations of the word "fringe" in other languages:

🇵🇹 franja

🇮🇳 किनारा

🇩🇪 Rand

🇮🇩 pinggiran

🇺🇦 бахрома

🇵🇱 frędzla

🇯🇵 縁

🇫🇷 frange

🇪🇸 fleco

🇹🇷 saçak

🇰🇷 가장자리

🇸🇦 هامش

🇨🇿 třásně

🇸🇰 okraj

🇨🇳 边缘

🇸🇮 rob

🇮🇸 jaðar

🇰🇿 шет

🇬🇪 ზღვარი

🇦🇿 saçaq

🇲🇽 fleco

Word Frequency Rank

Position #7,573 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.