rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryfestoonHanging decoration
noun / verb

festoon

feh-STOON/feˈstuːn/

A decoration hung in curves, or to decorate with it.

A festoon of flowers hangs in curves above the doorway.

People hang looping flower garlands and ribbon chains across a doorway.
Etymology
festoonItalianfestive ornament

Festone meant a festive ornament and apparently derives from festa, “celebration, feast.” The name for a hanging decorative chain became a verb meaning to adorn something with such chains or garlands.

More examples

  • Red fabric festoons hang between the columns.
  • We festoon the porch with strings of lights.
  • She festooned the railing with ribbons for the celebration.

Forms

festoon · festoons · festooned · festooning

Similar words

garland
Usually a strand of flowers or greenery, not necessarily looped.
swag
A decorative drape, especially fabric, hanging in a deep curve.
adorn
Means decorate generally, without requiring hanging or curved ornaments.