curtain

cur-tain · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A piece of fabric hung to block light or provide privacy.

  2. 2.

    To provide or cover with a curtain.

  3. 3.

    A screen of fabric that can be raised or lowered in a theater.

  4. 4.

    Something that conceals or separates.

Forms

plural: curtains

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    curtain call — an appearance by performers at the end of a show
  • •
    bring down the curtain — to end something
  • •
    behind the curtain — in secret; hidden from view
  • •
    iron curtain — the Cold War political barrier between Eastern and Western Europe
  • •
    draw a curtain over — to conceal or forget something

Related words

See also: blind, curtains, drape
Synonyms: blind, drape, hanging

Etymology

From Old French "cortine," from Late Latin "cortina," from Latin "cohors" (enclosure, court).