: ornamentation characterized by scrolls
especially : fancy designs in wood often made with a scroll saw

Examples of scrollwork in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The distressed wrought iron will only look better with time, and the scrollwork details and trellis chair backs add a sense of romance from a bygone era. Shea Simmons, Southern Living, 24 May 2026 The ornate accessory features scrollwork and clover motifs in silver and gold, set with diamonds that can be detached and worn as a brooch. Marta Martínez Tato, Vanity Fair, 24 June 2026 The drapery or scrollwork around a shield is called a lambrequin, a five-petaled flower is called a cinquefoil, and an emblem or animal that puns on the bearer’s name is called a rebus. Helen Lewis, The Atlantic, 9 June 2026 Crafted in Ireland, the coach features dark brown panels adorned with golden scrollwork and a gilded roof, offering shelter from the light rain falling over Berkshire. Amanda Castro hannah Parry shane Croucher jack Royston, MSNBC Newsweek, 18 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for scrollwork

Word History

First Known Use

1739, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of scrollwork was in 1739

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Cite this Entry

“Scrollwork.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/scrollwork. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

Kids Definition

scrollwork

noun
: ornamental work (as in metal or wood) having a scroll or scrolls

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