coulisse

noun

cou·​lisse kü-ˈlēs 

-ˈlis

1

a

: a side scene of a stage

also : the space between the side scenes

b

: a backstage area

c

: hallway

2

: a piece of timber having a groove in which something glides

Examples of coulisse in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Crafted from handmade Japanese paper and bamboo in three colorways, each with a different configuration, including a T-shape and a single panel, the collection is named for coulisses — painted pieces of scenery that give a stage set its dimension. —New York Times, 11 Oct. 2019

Word History

Etymology

French, from Old French coulice portcullis, from feminine of coleïz flowing, sliding, from couler

First Known Use

1786, in the meaning defined at sense 1a