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Glite Dictionary
fleur-de-lys

fleur-de-lys

9.9
A simple flower-shaped design like an iris used as a decoration on shields or flags
  • noun
  • /ˌflɜr də ˈli/
  • UK
translation icon : flor de lis
  • She painted a fleur-de-lys on the canvas, capturing the beauty of the iris flower.

Examples

  • Does yours have a fleur-de-lys handle?

    Blog text (24)

  • The coat of arms featured a beautiful fleur-de-lys as a symbol of royalty.

  • Decorative tiles with a fleur-de-lys design added elegance to the entrance hall.

Synonyms

fleur-de-lis
vsfleur-de-lys
9.9

A simple lily shape used as a decoration on flags and shields

has identical meaning but uses an alternative spelling

Surface Forms

fleur-de-lys singular
fleur-de-lys plural

Etymology

Fleur-de-lys comes from the French words fleur 'flower' and lys 'lily', so it literally means 'flower of the lily'. That's why a fleur-de-lys is a simple, stylized flower used as a decorative or royal symbol on coats of arms.