What does encurtain mean?
The verb encurtain is a relatively rare term that refers to the action of drawing back or closing a curtain as a signal to begin or end a performance. This can be seen in theatrical or musical contexts, where the conductor or director may use this gesture to signal the start or end of a show. The word is derived from the Old French word 'encourter', meaning 'to meet' or 'to encounter', and is related to the word 'curtain', which refers to a hanging or movable screen. In modern usage, the word is mostly confined to formal or theatrical contexts, and is not commonly used in everyday conversation.
verbTo draw back or close (a curtain) as a signal to begin or end a performance.
- To draw back or close (a curtain) as a signal to begin or end a performance.
"The conductor raised his hand and the orchestra members began to encurtain the curtains, signaling the start of the concert."
"The conductor raised his hand and the orchestra members began to encurtain the curtains, signaling the start of the concert."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of encurtain
The verb encurtain is derived from the Old French word 'encourter', meaning 'to meet' or 'to encounter'. This word is related to the Latin word 'concurrere', meaning 'to run together' or 'to meet'. The word 'curtain' is also related, and refers to a hanging or movable screen.
How encurtain is actually used
This verb is typically used in formal or theatrical contexts.