epergne

Estimated CEFR level: C2 — Proficiency

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. noun a large table centerpiece with branching holders for fruit or sweets or flowers

Etymology

Uncertain; perhaps from French épargne (“savings, treasury”), though it is unclear how the new meaning would have been acquired. Perhaps owing to the typical appearance of an épergne as resembling a balance upon which market goods or coins could be weighed.

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