garland
UK[ˈɡɑːlənd]US[ˈɡɑːrlənd]
n
A wreath or chain of flowers, leaves, or other material, worn on the head or hung as a decoration.
v
To adorn or crown with a garland.
Etymology
The word 'garland' has a regal and decorative journey. It entered Middle English from the Old French 'garlande', a term for a wreath or crown. The French word is likely of Germanic origin, possibly from a Frankish compound related to adornment. The core concept, from its earliest known use, has consistently been that of a decorative circlet, evolving from a symbol of honor or celebration in ancient times to its modern use as a festive ornament for the head or for decoration.
Analysis
This word is a simplex loanword. It entered English as a whole unit from Old French, with its ultimate origin traced back to Frankish or Old High German.
Examples
The winner of the race was presented with a laurel garland.
They decided to garland the portrait with strings of jasmine.
A beautiful garland of autumn leaves hung on the front door.