Tinsel
Tinsel is a type of decorative material that mimics the effect of ice, consisting of thin strips of sparkling material attached to a thread. When in long narrow strips not attached to thread, it is called “lametta”, and emulates icicles. It was originally a metallic garland for Christmas decoration. The modern production of tinsel typically involves plastic, and is used particularly to decorate Christmas trees. It may be hung from ceilings or wrapped around statues, lampposts, and so on. Modern tinsel was invented in Nuremberg, Germany, in 1610, and was originally made of shredded silver.
According to the Concise Oxford Dictionary, the word is from the Old French word estincele, meaning “sparkle”.
Tinsel (noun)
A shining material used for ornamental purposes; especially, a very thin, gauzelike cloth with much gold or silver woven into it; also, very thin metal overlaid with a thin coating of gold or silver, brass foil, or the like.
Tinsel (noun)
Anything shining and gaudy; something superficially shining and showy, or having a false luster, and more pretty than valuable.
Tinsel (adjective)
Glittering, later especially superficially so; gaudy, showy.
Tinsel (verb)
To adorn with tinsel; to deck out with cheap but showy ornaments; to make gaudy.
Tinsel (verb)
To give a false sparkle to (something).
Tensile (adjective)
Of or pertaining to tension.
Tensile (adjective)
Capable of being stretched; ductile.
Tinsel (noun)
a form of decoration consisting of thin strips of shiny metal foil attached to a long piece of thread
“a room bedecked with tinsel and fairy lights”
Tinsel (noun)
showy or superficial attractiveness or glamour
“his taste for the tinsel of the art world”
Tensile (adjective)
relating to tension
“a tensile force”
Tensile (adjective)
capable of being drawn out or stretched
“a tensile steel rod”