Corbeille

/kɔrˈbeɪ/ noun

Definition

A French term for a basket, particularly one filled with flowers or fruit; used in English to describe decorative baskets or floral arrangements.

Etymology

From Old French 'corbeil,' derived from Latin 'corbis' (basket), with the French -ille diminutive ending added; entered English primarily through fashion, theater, and decorative arts terminology.

Kelly Says

A 'corbeille' at a theater or opera house was a prime seating location where fashionable people displayed themselves—the very word evokes the flowers showered on performers, making the seat literally surrounded by beauty.

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