encaje

lace (fabric)

noun en-KAH-heh Rare

Also means

fitting; inlay

Usage Note

Encaje most commonly refers to decorative lacework — the intricate needle or bobbin lace (encaje de bolillos) that is a celebrated Spanish craft tradition, especially in regions like Catalonia, Galicia, and the Canary Islands. In a more technical sense, encaje also means the fitting or meshing of two parts (from encajar, 'to fit together'). In banking jargon it can mean a reserve ratio, though that sense is rare in everyday speech.

Examples

"El vestido tenía un hermoso encaje blanco."

Natural Translation

The dress had beautiful white lace.

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