Cullis

/ˈkʌlɪs/ noun

Definition

An archaic or variant spelling of coulisse, a grooved timber or flexible device used in theater or architecture.

Etymology

From French 'coulisse' (a sliding or grooved device), derived from 'couler' meaning 'to flow' or 'to slide'; English adopted this theatrical term with spelling variations.

Kelly Says

Theater history lives in this word—'cullis' is the backstage machinery that made scene changes possible in Renaissance theaters, hidden from audiences.

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