What does spangle mean?
A spangle is a small, glittering ornament, commonly sewn or attached to clothing, costumes, and decorative fabrics. It may be made of metal, plastic, glass, or another reflective material. The related verb spangle describes something that shines with many scattered points of light, as when stars or reflections cover the night sky or moonlight glitters across water. It can also mean to decorate an object with spangles. Although everyday speakers often use the related noun sequin for an individual shiny disk, spangle has a somewhat more traditional and decorative character. The word is especially evocative in fashion and literary contexts because it suggests movement as well as brightness: spangles flash, twinkle, and catch the light as the wearer moves.
A small, shiny or glittering ornament attached especially to clothing or fabric; also, a scattered point or patch of light forming a glittering effect.
"Gold spangles covered the dancer's bodice."
When referring to an individual ornament, spangle often has a more traditional or decorative tone than sequin.
To glitter or shine with scattered points of light; to cover or decorate something with small, shiny ornaments.
"Frost spangled the branches with tiny crystals."
The figurative sense, meaning to glitter with scattered points of light, is common in literary and poetic descriptions.
The plural normally refers to individual shiny ornaments, as on a garment or decorative object. In figurative descriptions, it can also refer to points of light.
"The tiny spangles on her dress sparkled under the stage lights."
A spangle can be a tiny ornament, while the same word can describe a whole surface scattered with points of light.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of spangle
The word entered Middle English through Old French, ultimately deriving from an Old High German term for a metal clasp or ornament. Its modern sense developed through the idea of a small shining decoration attached to fabric. Related Germanic forms include German Spange and Scandinavian words meaning a clasp, band, or fastening.
Related word forms
How spangle is actually used
The noun is most common in descriptions of clothing, costumes, and decorations. The verb is especially common in literary or poetic descriptions of surfaces covered with small points of light; in figurative use, it often suggests a rich or star-like appearance.