rinceau

noun

rin·​ceau
raⁿˈsō
plural rinceaux
-ō(z)
: an ornamental motif consisting essentially of a sinuous and branching scroll elaborated with leaves and other natural forms (as derived from the acanthus)

Word History

Etymology

French, from Middle French rainsel branch, from (assumed) Vulgar Latin ramuscellus, alteration of Late Latin ramusculus small branch, diminutive of ramus branch

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near rinceau

Cite this Entry

“Rinceau.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rinceau. Accessed 23 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!