VALANCE

cornice, valance, valance board, pelmet

(noun) a decorative framework to conceal curtain fixtures at the top of a window casing

Source: WordNet® 3.1

Etymology

Noun

valance (plural valances)

A short curtain that usually hangs along the top edge of a window.

A decorative framework used to conceal the curtain mechanism and so on at the top of a window.

(bedding) A short, decorative edging of cloth that hangs from the mattress to the floor.

The drooping edging of the lid of a trunk, which covers the joint when the lid is closed.

Synonyms

• (bedding): dust ruffle, bedskirt

Source: Wiktionary

Val"ance, n. Etym: [Perhaps fr. OF. avalant descending, hanging down, p. pr. of avaler to go down, let down, descent (cf. Avalanche); but probably from the town of Valence in France.]

1. Hanging drapery for a bed, couch, window, or the like, especially that which hangs around a bedstead, from the bed to the floor. [Written also valence.] Valance of Venice gold in needlework. Shak.

2. The drooping edging of the lid of a trunk. which covers the joint when the lid is closed.

Val"ance, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Valanced; p. pr. & vb. n. Valancing.]

Definition: To furnish with a valance; to decorate with hangings or drapery. His old fringed chair valanced around with party-colored worsted bobs. Sterne.

Source: Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary 1913 Edition