Fringes: meaning, definitions and examples

Refers to decorative threads or strips hanging from the edge of something, often used on clothing or home decor items.

• She added fringes to her shawl to give it a bohemian look
• The vintage lampshade had long, hanging fringes

Denotes a group of threads bound together at one end and hanging free at the other. Generally used as an ornament.

• The curtains were tied back with gold tassels
• Her graduation cap had a red tassel

Used to describe a border or edge that is decorative or functional. This term can pertain to clothing, fabric, or even landscaping.

• The lace edging on her dress made it look elegant
• He added some brick edging around the garden

Refers to a decorative material that is added to the edges of something to finish or adorn it. It can be used in fashion, interior design, and more.

• The costume was finished with gold trim along the sleeves
• The couch had a braided trim that matched its cushions

Used to describe the outer edges of something more abstract, like society or a group. It often has a slightly negative connotation, implying separation from the main or central part.

• She always felt like she was on the fringes of the social circle.
• New ideas often emerge from the fringes of established norms.

Describes the outer boundary or edge of an area, both physical and abstract. It often emphasizes the distance from the center.

• She lived on the periphery of London, far from the busy downtown area.
• The issue was discussed on the periphery of the main debate.

Refers to the outer limits or edges of a boundary, often used for physical objects like pages or fields, but can also refer to less central parts of a situation or activity.

• She made notes in the margins of her notebook.
• They live on the margins of the city, where the infrastructure is less developed.

Used to describe the outer parts of a city or town, usually more residential and less densely populated than the center. It does not have a negative connotation.

• They bought a house on the outskirts of the city to have more space.
• The outskirts of the town are very peaceful compared to the bustling center.

Used to describe the decorative edges of a piece of fabric, a shawl, or curtain. It can also mean the edges of something in a less literal sense, like the fringes of a city or society.

• The scarf had beautiful fringes made of colorful threads.
• He lived on the fringes of society, rarely interacting with others.

Usually refers to the soft, light growths covering the body of birds. In a metaphorical or descriptive sense, it can refer to anything that is light and airy or has a feather-like appearance.

• The bird's feather was so light it floated on the water.
• She wore a hat adorned with a single, elegant feather.