Tinsel
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Tinsel was originally a metallic garland for Christmas decoration. Nowadays it is typically made of plastic, and used particularly to decorate Christmas trees. In addition it can be hung from walls or ceilings and is normally flexible enough to be wrapped around almost anything e.g. statues or lampposts. Tinsel in its modern form was invented in Nuremberg, Germany in 1610, and was originally made of shredded silver.[1]
According to the Concise Oxford Dictionary, the word is from the Old French word "estincele", meaning sparkle.
Tinsel is a rare German, Czech and Dutch surname, originating from the same old French Word "estincele".
Tinsel used to include lead, which caused the strands to hang better from the branches. This was eventually removed due to safety concerns.[citation needed]
Tinsel also can harm or kill pets, so it should be used cautiously in homes with pets. [2]
[edit] References
- ^ "The History of Christmas Stuff". About.com. http://inventors.about.com/od/articlesandresources/a/christmas.htm. Retrieved 2007-06-10.
- ^ "Holiday Hazards for Your Pets". University of Minnesota. http://www.extension.umn.edu/info-u/pets/BB495.html. Retrieved 2008-03-19.
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