Definitions

from The Century Dictionary.

  • noun Decorative needlework done by gathering the stuff in very small gathers, and holding it at more than one point, either by stitching, or by cords which pass through it and gather it more or less closely at pleasure.
  • noun Manufactured webbing, and the like, in which an elastic cord or thread gives the effect described above. Also called elastic.

from Wiktionary, Creative Commons Attribution/Share-Alike License.

  • noun Two or more rows of gathers used to decorate parts of garments, usually the sleeves, bodice and yoke.
  • verb Present participle of shirr.

from WordNet 3.0 Copyright 2006 by Princeton University. All rights reserved.

  • noun baking shelled eggs

Etymologies

Sorry, no etymologies found.

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Examples

  • Slim trouble zones with great details such as shirring, draping and mesh inserts.

    Daytona Beach News-Journal Online 2009

  • But now, fast-fashion retailers such as Forever 21, Zara, H&M and Topshop have mastered the art of churning out colorful fashion tops with embellishments that go far beyond basic—shirring, ruching, sequins, ruffles, embroidery and flutter sleeves.

    A Fashionista's Secret Weapon: Cheap Tops Teri Agins 2011

  • But now, fast-fashion retailers such as Forever 21, Zara, H&M and Topshop have mastered the art of churning out colorful fashion tops with embellishments that go far beyond basic—shirring, ruching, sequins, ruffles, embroidery and flutter sleeves.

    A Fashionista's Secret Weapon: Cheap Tops Teri Agins 2011

  •   The photographers snapped some shots, tiny electric motors shirring quietly.

    Cellphone Girl (Part II) 2010

  • Striking boldly away from the less-is-more approach of swimwear, Jantzen's new collection showcases old-fashioned yet figure-enhancing, flaw-concealing details and design elements from decades past: wide straps, low-cut leg openings, front shirring, ruffled skirts.

    Susan Kim: Eye Candy 2010

  • Vyan drew his weapon, heartened at the shirring sound of eight more swords drawn behind him.

    Blood Trinity Sherrilyn Kenyon 2010

  • Vyan drew his weapon, heartened at the shirring sound of eight more swords drawn behind him.

    Blood Trinity Sherrilyn Kenyon 2010

  • These Fortuny tea gowns slip over the head with no opening but the neck, with its silk shirring cord by means of which it can be made high or low, at will; they come in black gold and the tones of old Venetian dyes.

    Fortuny’s “Delphos” Gown | Edwardian Promenade 2008

  • There was a tiny shirring noise and she tumbled through the fabric onto soft grass.

    Jason Stoddard, Strange and Happy » Blog Archive » Eternal Franchise, 11.1 of 31.1 2009

  • The shirring was stressful – I did it by hand in the end.

    Archive 2009-01-01 The List Writer 2009

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    September 30, 2008