valance

val-ance · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A short decorative piece of drapery hung across the top of a window to conceal curtain fixtures.

  2. 2.

    A short curtain or piece of drapery hung from the edge of a canopy, bed frame, or shelf.

  3. 3.

    A border of drapery hung along the edge of an altar, table, or shelf.

Forms

plural: valances

Related words

See also: curtain, drapery
Synonyms: curtain border, drapery, pelmet

Etymology

From Old French avaler (to descend, lower), possibly referring to fabric that hangs down.