coulisse

noun

cou·lisse kü-ˈlēs

-ˈlis

: a side scene of a stage

also : the space between the side scenes

: a backstage area

: hallway

: a piece of timber having a groove in which something glides

Word History

Etymology

French, from Old French coulice portcullis, from feminine of coleïz flowing, sliding, from couler

First Known Use

1786, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler

The first known use of coulisse was in 1786

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coulis

coulisse

couloir

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Style

“Coulisse.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/coulisse. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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coulisse

noun

Word History

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