Aigrette meaning

An aigrette is a decorative plume or tuft of feathers, especially one worn on a hat or as an ornament.


Aigrette definitions

Word backwards ettergia
Part of speech Noun
Syllabic division ai-grette
Plural The plural of the word "aigrette" is "aigrettes."
Total letters 8
Vogais (3) a,i,e
Consonants (3) g,r,t

An aigrette is a beautiful and ornamental accessory that was traditionally worn in the hair or on a hat. It consists of a spray or tuft of feathers, often plumes from the egret bird, that are attached to a decorative base. Aigrettes were popular in fashion during the 19th and early 20th centuries.

Aigrettes were often considered a symbol of wealth and status, as they were typically made from rare and expensive feathers. Egret birds were hunted to near-extinction to fuel the demand for these fashionable accessories, leading to conservation efforts to protect the species.

History of Aigrettes

The use of aigrettes dates back to ancient civilizations, where feathers were used for ceremonial and decorative purposes. In European fashion, aigrettes became popular in the 1800s, with women adorning their hats and hair with these luxurious accessories.

Controversy and Conservation

Due to the over-hunting of egret birds for their feathers, aigrettes became a symbol of cruelty and environmental destruction. The demand for these accessories led to the endangerment of several bird species, prompting the passing of laws to protect them.

Modern Use and Alternatives

In modern times, the use of aigrettes has significantly declined due to conservation efforts and changing fashion trends. Faux feathers and other sustainable materials are now used as alternatives to traditional aigrettes, allowing for a more ethical and environmentally friendly choice in accessories.

While aigrettes may no longer be as prevalent in fashion as they once were, their history and symbolism continue to be a reminder of the impact of human actions on the natural world. By opting for sustainable and cruelty-free accessories, we can honor the beauty of nature without causing harm to the creatures that inhabit it.


Aigrette Examples

  1. The egret gracefully displayed its aigrette feathers during mating season.
  2. The bride adorned her hair with a beautiful aigrette for her wedding day.
  3. The fashion designer incorporated an aigrette motif into the latest collection.
  4. The chef garnished the dish with a delicate aigrette for a finishing touch.
  5. The actress wore a stunning aigrette necklace on the red carpet.
  6. The birdwatcher spotted a rare species with a distinctive aigrette on its head.
  7. The painter captured the beauty of a swan with an aigrette in a watercolor painting.
  8. The museum displayed an antique aigrette brooch from the 19th century.
  9. The hat maker fashioned a stylish aigrette hat for the fashion show.
  10. The photographer took a close-up shot of a heron with an aigrette along the riverbank.


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  • Updated 18/04/2024 - 23:25:04