Borrowed from Italian filigrana, formed from filo (“thread”) and grano (“small grain of metal”).
Borrowed from Italian filigrana, formed from filo (“thread”) and grano (“small grain of metal”).
What does filigrana mean?
Fine wirework, a watermark, delicate work or a Cuban shrub.
Is a paper filigrana visible?
Yes, often when the sheet is held to the light.
Can it praise a performance?
Yes, figuratively it suggests delicate skill.
Is the plant sense used everywhere?
No, the shrub sense is Cuban.
Where does the word come from?
From Italian filigrana, built from words for thread and grain.