GUILLOCHED Meaning and
Definition
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Guilloched is an adjective that describes a decorative pattern or design characterized by intricately engraved or etched lines, usually forming interlocking curves or curves within curves. The term derives from the French word "guillocher," meaning "to engrave with a lathe," referring to the traditional technique used to create such designs.
The technique of guilloching involves the use of a mechanical lathe, or a similar apparatus, fitted with a rose engine or geometric patterned wheels. A metal or material surface is then rotated against these wheels while specialized tools, such as gravers or burins, are utilized to carve precise, repetitive lines onto the surface. This meticulous process results in an ornate interlacing or radiating pattern, often displaying a symmetrical arrangement.
Guilloched designs can be found in a variety of artistic and everyday objects, such as jewelry, watches, coins, banknotes, and decorative metalwork. The precision and intricacy of guilloched patterns not only add an aesthetic appeal to these items but also serve as a security feature in banknotes and documents, making them difficult to counterfeit.
In contemporary usage, "guilloched" can also describe any pattern or design that mimics the appearance of traditional guilloching, even if it is achieved through modern manufacturing techniques, such as laser engraving or computer-aided design. This broader definition acknowledges the evolution of the term in the context of technological advancements.
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Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for GUILLOCHED
- fuilloched
- vuilloched
- builloched
- huilloched
- yuilloched
- tuilloched
- gyilloched
- ghilloched
- gjilloched
- giilloched
- g8illoched
- g7illoched
- guulloched
- gujlloched
- guklloched
- guolloched
- gu9lloched
- gu8lloched
- guikloched
Etymology of GUILLOCHED
The word "guilloched" comes from the French term "guilloché", which is the past participle of the verb "guillocher". The French term is derived from the noun "guilloche", which refers to an ornamental pattern consisting of interlacing curves, typically engraved or embossed on metal. The word "guilloche" itself originated from the Middle French word "guilloquier". The exact origin of "guilloquer" is uncertain, but it is speculated to have roots in the Old French word "guilloc", meaning "cane" or "stick", referring to the tool or instrument used for creating the delicate engraved patterns.
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