noun

frieze

/friːz/ · say it: FREEZ

a broad horizontal band of decoration on a wall

In Architecture & Design

In more detail

1. (noun) a decorative horizontal band or strip on a wall, often with painted or carved designs

2. (noun) a strip of cloth or paper used as decoration

Examples

1. The ancient Greek frieze showed scenes of gods and goddesses.
2. We hung a frieze with stars and moons around the child's bedroom.

How to use frieze

Frieze refers to a horizontal decorative band, typically found along walls, ceilings, or architectural elements. It can be carved, painted, or applied as a separate strip of material. The term is used primarily in architectural and interior design contexts, emphasizing ornamental rather than functional purposes.

Common phrases

decorative frieze
wall frieze
marble frieze
painted frieze
frieze of characters

Synonyms

border · band · stripe · trim · ornamental strip

Word family

friezes (plural)

A common mistake

Learners sometimes confuse frieze with freeze (the temperature condition) due to homophonic pronunciation in some accents, though the spelling clearly distinguishes them.

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