epergne

Meaning

A table centerpiece, usually made of silver, generally consisting of a central bowl with radiating dishes or holders.

Synonyms

centerpiece

centrepiece

Pronounced as (IPA)

/iˈpɝn/

Etymology

Uncertain; perhaps from French épargne (“savings, treasury”), though it is unclear how the new meaning would have been acquired. Perhaps owing to the typical appearance of an épergne as resembling a balance upon which market goods or coins could be weighed.