valance
valance
UK[ˈvæləns]US[ˈvæləns]
n
A length of decorative drapery hung across the top of a window or around a bed to conceal curtain fittings or the bed frame.
Etymology
The word 'valance' entered English in the late Middle English period, borrowed from Anglo-French in reference to drapery that hangs down. Its etymological core is tied to the concept of descending or lowering, likely derived from the Old French 'avaler'. This connection is logical, as a valance is a furnishing that descends from a top edge. Over centuries, its application narrowed specifically to the decorative fabric used at the upper part of windows or beds, maintaining its essential sense of something that hangs down.
Analysis
The word is a simplex form. It is a loanword from Anglo-French, where 'valance' referred to a hanging drapery. Its ultimate origin is debated but is often linked to the Old French verb 'avaler', meaning 'to descend, to lower', which itself comes from the phrase 'à val' ('downwards').
Examples
She chose a lace valance to add a delicate touch to the bedroom window.
The heavy velvet valance helped to block out the light at the top of the curtain rod.
When redecorating, they decided to remove the old, dusty valance above the bed.