WordGarden.iocurlicue
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /kˈɜːlɪkjˌuː/
US
- /ˈkɜrˌlɪkju/
Meanings
Noun
a decorative curl or spiral in handwriting or design
something shaped like a curl, coil, or spiral
Verb
to move or form in curling loops or spirals
Beyond the definition
A curlicue is a playful little swirl or loop in design—think of the fancy ends on letters in old-fashioned handwriting, or the delicate decorations you might find on wrought-iron gates. It's all about adding a touch of elegance and whimsy!
You might see curlicues adorning wedding invitations, decorating cakes, or even forming part of a larger artistic pattern. They're rarely necessary, but they always add a bit of flair. A child might draw endless curlicues while daydreaming, or an artist might incorporate them into the flowing lines of a drawing. Sometimes, a particularly elaborate signature is full of curlicues!
A curlicue is a decorative spiral, loop, or flourish—often found in handwriting, artwork, or architectural details. It's more than just a line; it's a playful embellishment meant to add visual interest and a sense of artistry.
The word itself evokes the image of something curling and twisting. Think about the delicate tendrils of a vine, the swirling steam rising from a cup of coffee, or the elaborate flourishes in a calligrapher's writing—these all embody the essence of a curlicue.
Historically, curlicues were common in ornate handwriting styles like Copperplate and Spencerian script, where skilled penmen would add elegant loops and swirls to letters for aesthetic effect. They also appear frequently in decorative arts, such as ironwork, furniture design, and illuminated manuscripts.
Today, you might find curlicues used in graphic design, logos, or even as a playful element in digital art. While they aren't always functional, they serve the purpose of adding personality, charm, and a touch of sophistication to whatever they adorn. A simple doodle can be elevated with a few well-placed curlicues, transforming it from a casual sketch into something more visually appealing.
So whether you're admiring an antique signature or spotting a whimsical design element, remember that a curlicue is all about adding a little bit of flourish and fancy to the world around us.
Examples
- 1
Decorative printing
The invitation was printed with gold curlicues around the border.
- 2
Signature
She finished her signature with a large curlicue under the last letter.
- 3
Metalwork
The old iron gate was covered in curlicues and flower shapes.
See also
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- curlicuenoun