reticella

noun

ret·​i·​cel·​la

ˌretəˈchelə

variants or less commonly reticello

-che(ˌ)lō

plural -s

: an early needlepoint lace derived from cutwork and drawnwork and made by buttonholing geometric patterns on or over a fabric foundation and cutting away the foundation

Word History

Etymology

reticella from Italian, little net, diminutive of rete net, from Latin; reticello alteration (probably influenced by cello) of reticella

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now