purflew

Updated: May 7, 2025

There seems a difference of opinion as to where this word originally was used. I fancy in ancient heraldry; but there the word is "purflew" a "bordure of ermines, peans, or furs," whilst the ancients spell it "purfile," a "trimming for women's gowns." Milton says "to purfle to embroider."

Walter H. (Walter Henry) Mayson - Violin Making: 'The Strad' Library, No. IX.