DictionaryflamboyantFlame-shaped Gothic design
adjective

flamboyant

Having flame-shaped curves characteristic of late Gothic architecture.

The chapel's flamboyant windows feature stone curves shaped like flickering flames.

Etymology

The French verb means to flame. Architecture applies that image to late Gothic tracery whose flowing curves resemble tongues of fire.

More examples

  • The guide points out the church's flamboyant stone tracery.
  • We sketch the flame-shaped curves of a flamboyant arch.
  • This late Gothic facade combines flamboyant windows with elaborate carving.

Forms

flamboyant

Similar words

curvilinear
Describes curved lines generally, not specifically flame-shaped Gothic tracery.