ormolu

ormolu Definition

or·molu (ôr′mə lo̵̅o̅′)

noun

an imitation gold made of an alloy of copper and tin, used in making ornaments, moldings, cheap jewelry, etc.
imitation gold leaf

Etymology: Fr or moulu, lit., ground gold < or (see or) + pp. of moudre < L molere, to grind: see mill

ormolu Usage Examples

Modifies a noun

clock: Interesting features include the reception area's ornately carved Dutch bed over which stands a handsome gilt ormolu clock.
ware: During the following decades Matthew Boulton sent to Russia and the Russian Court a significant number of ormolu wares.
frame: The picture is mounted in an ormolu frame with laurel and sheaf of wheat surmounted by flowers.

Browse dictionary entries near ormolu