Langimage
English

aigrettes

|ai-grette|

C1

/eɪˈɡrɛts/

(aigrette)

decorative feather or gem

Base FormPlural
aigretteaigrettes
Etymology
Etymology Information

'aigrette' originates from French, specifically the word 'aigrette', where 'aigre' meant 'sharp' or 'pointed'.

Historical Evolution

'aigrette' changed from the Old French word 'aigrette' and eventually became the modern English word 'aigrette'.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'a small heron', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a decorative feather or gem'.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a plume or tuft of feathers, especially the back plume of certain herons, used as an ornament in a headdress.

The dancer wore a headdress adorned with white aigrettes.

Synonyms

Noun 2

a spray of gems worn in the hair or on a hat.

She wore a diamond aigrette on her wedding day.

Synonyms

Last updated: 2025/06/06 06:36