tassel
tassel
UK[ˈtæsəl]US[ˈtæsəl]
n
a decoration made of a bunch of threads tied together at one end and hanging free at the other, used on clothing, curtains, etc.
n
the tuft at the top of a stalk of maize or other plant where the seeds form.
Etymology
The word 'tassel' entered English in the late Middle English period, borrowed from Old French 'tassel', meaning a clasp or fastening. This Old French term is a diminutive of the Latin 'tassellus', itself a variant of 'taxillus', meaning a small die or cube. The semantic connection likely stems from the shape of early decorative fastenings or pendants, which resembled small blocks or knobs. Over time, the meaning shifted from a functional clasp to the purely ornamental bunch of threads we recognize today, while also being applied to the similar tufted seed-head of certain plants.
Analysis
n/a
Examples
The velvet cushion was adorned with a thick, golden tassel at each corner.
She carefully tied a red tassel to the zipper of her school bag.
The corn tassel was heavy with pollen, ready for the wind to spread it.