[f. BRAID v.1]

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  1.  a. The action of plaiting, embroidering, etc.; also the action of making or applying braid. b. Braids collectively. c. Braided work; transf. embroidery; also fig.

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c. 1440.  Promp. Parv., 49. Bredynge of lacys or oþer lyke, laqueacio, nectio, connectio.

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1540.  Hyrde, Vives’ Instr. Chr. Wom., I. ix. (R.). Let not the outward apparell of women bee decked with the brayding of hir haire.

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1662.  Prynne, Apol. Chr. Lib., To Chas. II. Womens sitting in the Congregation with their heads unvailed, and Brayding or Frizling their hair.

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1831.  J. Wilson, in Blackw. Mag., XXIX. 288. Some delicate braidings … along the calm of the Great Blue Sea of Heaven.

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1849.  Thackeray, Pendennis, xxiii. A gentleman enveloped in mustachios, whiskers, fur collars, and braiding.

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  2.  Braiding-machine, one for weaving braid.

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1874.  Knight, Amer. Mech. Dict., I. 355. Braiding-machines are made of all sizes.

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