Befurbelowed

/bɪˈfɜːrbɛloʊd/ adjective

Definition

Decorated or trimmed with furbelows; adorned with excessive or flashy ruffles and ornamental details.

Etymology

From be- + furbelow (a gathered or pleated strip of fabric used as a decoration). Furbelow itself comes from French falbala, possibly from Spanish falda (skirt). The -ed ending makes it an adjective.

Kelly Says

Furbelows were the absolute height of 18th-century fashion excess—flouncy, rustling layers of ruffles that announced 'I have money and time to spare.' They were simultaneously beloved and mocked by satirists.

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