valance

noun

va·​lance ˈva-lən(t)s  ˈvā- 

1

: a drapery hung along the edge of a bed, table, altar, canopy, or shelf

2

: a short drapery or wood or metal frame used as a decorative heading to conceal the top of curtains and fixtures

valanced

ˈva-lən(t)st 

ˈvā-

adjective

Illustration of valance

• V valance 1

Examples of valance in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

In the '90s, this meant layers of floral prints, dust ruffle valances, and quaint furniture. —Sophie Flaxman, Better Homes & Gardens, 27 Jan. 2025

Reply Ellen says: January 23, 2025 at 5:37 pm That valance over the picture window looking out to the Pacific. —Wendy Bowman, Robb Report, 23 Jan. 2025

The $15 set includes rod pocket tier curtains and a valance for a coordinated and complete look. —Megan Schaltegger, Better Homes & Gardens, 17 Jan. 2025

Add a valance to cover modern appliances, such as microwaves, and further the vintage look. 18 of 38 Add a Wreath to a Range Hood A sweet simple wreath matches the scale and style of the range hood. —Abby Wolner, Better Homes & Gardens, 17 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English valaunce, borrowed from Anglo-French valence, probably from valer "to lower" + -ence, -ance -ance — more at vail

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

valance

noun

va·​lance ˈval-ən(t)s  ˈvāl- 

: a short drapery or wood or metal frame (as across the top of a window)