arabesks
|ar-a-besk|
/ˌærəˈbɛsks/
(arabesque)
ornate, interlaced decoration / pose
Etymology
'arabesque' originates from French, specifically the word 'arabesque,' which was adopted into English; the French term referred to 'in the Arabic manner' or 'Arabic-like' ornamentation.
'arabesque' entered English from French in the 17th century; the French word came from Italian 'arabesco' (meaning 'in the Arabic style'), which in turn was derived from a Medieval Latin/Italian formation relating to 'Arab'.
Initially, it meant 'in the Arabic style' (i.e., ornamentation resembling Islamic art), and over time it broadened to refer to specific decorative motifs, a ballet pose, and musical pieces with ornate melodic lines.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
an ornate decorative design featuring intertwined flowing lines, foliage, and tendrils, often used in architecture, tiling, and decorative arts.
The cathedral's arabesks along the archways drew attention from visitors.
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Noun 2
in ballet, a position in which the dancer stands on one leg with the other leg extended straight behind the body.
During the recital, the dancers executed several arabesks with perfect balance.
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Noun 3
a musical piece or passage characterized by ornate, flowing melodic lines, often called an 'arabesque' (e.g., Debussy's Arabesques).
He recorded a collection of piano arabesks by various composers.
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Adjective 1
having the characteristics of an arabesque; ornate or elaborately decorative.
The room was furnished in an arabesque style with carved wooden panels and inlaid tiles.
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Last updated: 2025/09/30 14:32