arabesque Hear it!

arabesque definition

ara·besque (ar′ə besk′, er′-)

noun

  1. a complex and elaborate decorative design of intertwined lines suggesting flowers, foliage, animals, geometric patterns, etc., used in drawing, painting, low relief, metalwork, etc.
  2. Ballet a position in which one leg is extended straight backward and the arms are extended, usually one forward and one backward
  3. Music
    1. a light, whimsical composition with many delicately ornamental passages
    2. any ornamental passage typical of such a composition

Etymology: Fr < It arabesco < Arabo, Arab < Ar ʼarab: with reference to the designs in Moorish architecture

adjective

of, done in, or like arabesque; fantastic and elaborate

Webster's New World College Dictionary Copyright © 2009 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

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