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galon

braid

noun gah-LOHN Rare
Descriptions & Qualities Appearance

Also means

stripe

Usage Note

Galon has two main senses: a decorative braid or ribbon sewn onto fabric, and a military rank stripe worn on a uniform sleeve or shoulder. The plural les galons is common in a military context — prendre du galon means 'to get promoted' (literally 'to gain stripes'). In dressmaking and interior decoration un galon is a decorative trimming.

Examples

"Le général porte trois galons sur son uniforme."

Natural Translation

The general wears three stripes on his uniform.

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