Valance

Quick meaning: Valance is a noun meaning A short curtain that usually hangs along the top edge of a window.

Meaning

A short curtain that usually hangs along the top edge of a window.

More Meanings

1. A decorative framework used to conceal the curtain mechanism and so on at the top of a window.
2. A short, decorative edging of cloth that conceals the legs of a couch, sofa, etc.
3. The drooping edging of the lid of a trunk, which covers the joint when the lid is closed.
4. A short, decorative edging of cloth that hangs from a bed, from beneath the mattress to the floor, used to conceal the box spring or space under the bed and prevent dust from accumulating there.
5. (automotive) A low-hanging auto body panel, below a front or rear bumper, whose purpose is aerodynamic and decorative but not structural (often valance panel).

Example Sentences

Even the mantelpiece is adorned with a totally unfunctional tasselled valance rather like an altar frontal.

Mortally insulted, Jasper went under the couch, where he remained with only his nose showing beneath the valance, emitting little world-weary groans at intervals, and refusing to come out for cake.

Word Forms

• valances
• valaunce
• valence
• vallance

Synonyms for valance

Depending on context, synonyms include bedskirt, cornice, pelmet.

Related Words

Related dictionary entries include pelmet, cornice, valancing, bedhanging, bedskirt, lambrequin.

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