Bespangled

/bɪˈspæŋɡəld/ adjective

Definition

Covered or decorated with shiny sequins, beads, or small metallic ornaments.

Etymology

From Middle English 'be-' prefix meaning 'to cover' combined with 'spangle,' a word of uncertain origin possibly from Dutch or Low German, meaning a shiny disk or sequin. The word became popular in the 16th century to describe ornaments on clothing.

Kelly Says

The phrase 'star-spangled' in 'The Star-Spangled Banner' uses this same root—the flag itself is literally 'spangled' or covered with stars, which is why Francis Scott Key chose this word to describe the flag glowing in the dawn's light during the War of 1812.

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