Fringe

Podcast 1 · Introduction

Fringe

A documentary-style narration: origin, meaning, and feel.

Part of speech

noun, adjective, and verb

Pronunciation

frinj  /frɪndʒ/

Definition

As a noun: an ornamental border of threads or strips; the front part of the hair cut to hang over the forehead; the outer or marginal part of an area, group, or activity; the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. As an adjective: not part of the mainstream; marginal. As a verb: to decorate with fringe; to form the border of.

Plain meaning

A fringe is the hair that falls over your forehead, or the decorative border on fabric, or — in a wider sense — the outer margin of something, including unconventional or extreme views.

Register

Neutral in hairstyle and decorative contexts. The marginal or unconventional sense carries a range from neutral to slightly pejorative, depending on context.