papillon etymology

Etymology

The word "papillon" is derived from the French word "papillon," which means "butterfly." The term was first used to describe a type of butterfly with brightly colored wings.

Meaning

  • Butterfly
  • A person or thing that is light and frivolous
  • A small, decorative bow worn on the head

Origin

The word "papillon" is ultimately derived from the Latin word "papilio," which also means "butterfly." The Latin word is thought to be derived from the Greek word "papilio," which refers to a fluttering insect.

Historical Usage

In the 17th and 18th centuries, the term "papillon" was used to describe a type of headdress worn by women. The headdress consisted of a small, ornamental butterfly perched on top of the head.

In the 19th century, the term "papillon" began to be used to describe a type of tie knot. The tie knot is characterized by its small, symmetrical loops that resemble butterfly wings.

Today, the term "papillon" is most commonly used to refer to butterflies or to describe something that is light and frivolous. The term can also be used to refer to the tie knot or to a woman's headdress.

papillon relate terms

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