fringe

The definition of fringe is someone or something at the edge.

(adjective)

An example of fringe is someone who doesn't fit in with the mainstream culture but who is unconventional like punk rock or grunge.
An example of fringe is the edge of the television reception area.

To fringe means to create or form a border on fabric or other objects or things.

(verb)

Fringe is defined as a border on fabric or other material that is made of tassels, twists or loose threads.

(noun)

An example of fringe is a chenille blanket with ties of threads at all the edges.

See fringe in Webster's New World College Dictionary

noun

a border or trimming of cords or threads, hanging loose or tied in bunches
1. anything like this: a fringe of hair
2. an outer edge; border; margin: at the fringes of the slums
a part considered to be peripheral, extreme, or minor in relation to the main part: the lunatic fringe of a political party
☆ fringe benefit
Optics any of the light or dark bands resulting from the interference or diffraction of light

Origin: ME frenge < OFr frenge, fringe < VL *frimbia, metathesis of LL fimbria, a fringe, border < L fimbriae, shreds, fibers

transitive verb fringed, fringing

adjective

See fringe in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun

A decorative border or edging of hanging threads, cords, or strips, often attached to a separate band.
Something that resembles such a border or edging.
A marginal, peripheral, or secondary part: “They like to hang out on the geographical fringes, the seedy outposts” (James Atlas).
Those members of a group or political party holding extreme views: the lunatic fringe.
Any of the light or dark bands produced by the diffraction or interference of light.
A fringe benefit.