fringe

[frɪndʒ]

Origin

Middle English, from Old French frenge, from Latin fimbria meaning 'fiber, edge'

Meanings

1. (noun) The outer edge of an area or group
2. (noun) A decorative border of threads, tassels, or other ornaments
3. (noun) Hair cut so that it hangs over the forehead
4. (adjective) Not part of the mainstream; unconventional or extreme

Example Sentences

1. The protesters gathered on the fringe of the crowd.
2. She sewed a golden fringe onto the edge of the curtain.
3. She decided to get bangs, giving herself a stylish fringe.
4. The festival showcases fringe theater performances.

Related Words

• Forms: fringed (adjective), fringing (verb)
• Synonyms: edge, border, periphery, margin, hem, trimming, bangs (US)

Memorization Trick

Think of "FR-INGE" as "Front-Edge" - the fringe is often at the front or edge of something, like bangs on your forehead or decorative elements on the edge of fabric.