ENGLISH
REFERENCE

ribbon

n. countable
A2 Elementary US //ˈɹɪbən// UK //ɹˈɪbən// rib·bon Archaic Slang

n. a long, thin strip of fabric used for tying things or making them look pretty. You often see these on birthday gifts or in people's hair.

n. a narrow strip of fine material, such as silk or rayon, used for decoration or for tying hair and packages.


SIMPLE

She tied a red ribbon around the gift box.

CONTEXTUAL

The winner of the race received a blue ribbon to mark their first-place finish.

COMPLEX

Intricate silk ribbons were woven through the bride's hair, complementing the delicate lace of her gown and the floral arrangements on the tables.

Synonyms
Origin

From Middle English riban, ryban, ryband, from Old French riban, ruban ( > modern French ruban), of uncertain origin. Likely from a Germanic compound whose second element is cognate with English band. Compare Middle Dutch ringhband (“necklace”, literally “ring-band”).

Usage

Commonly used with verbs like 'tie', 'bind', or 'decorate'.

Idioms1 entry

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