valance

== English == === Alternative forms === valaunce (obsolete) valence vallance (obsolete) === Etymology === From Middle English valance, valans, valaunce, valence, valons. Origin uncertain. Probably from Anglo-Norman valaunce, valence, from valer (“go down, let down”), aphetic form of Old French avaler (“to descend, go down”). === Pronunciation === IPA(key): /ˈvæləns/ Rhymes: -æləns === Noun === valance (plural valances) A short curtain that usually hangs along the top edge of a window. A decorative framework used to conceal the curtain mechanism and so on at the top of a window. A short, decorative edging of cloth that hangs from a bed, from beneath the mattress to the floor, used to conceal the box spring or space under the bed and prevent dust from accumulating there. A short, decorative edging of cloth that conceals the legs of a couch, sofa, etc. (automotive) A low-hanging auto body panel, below a front or rear bumper, whose purpose is aerodynamic and decorative but not structural (often valance panel). The drooping edging of the lid of a trunk, which covers the joint when the lid is closed. ==== Synonyms ==== (bedding): dust ruffle, bedskirt, bed ruffle ==== Derived terms ==== valanced ==== Translations ====