plique

Plique is a term that appears in several contexts, typically as an Anglicized or variant spelling connected to French words for folding and pleating. In standard French, related forms include plis (folds) and plié (a fold or folded), with plier meaning to fold. The unaccented form “plique” is uncommon in formal French and is more often encountered in English-language text, product names, or as a misspelling. Because of this, its precise meaning can vary depending on context and source.

In fashion and textiles, “plique” is sometimes used informally to evoke pleated or folded fabric effects. The more precise French-origin terms are plissé (pleated) and plié (folded). Designers or manufacturers may use the word creatively in marketing to suggest texture or movement, rather than describing a specific technical process.

In jewelry and enameling, related terminology from the same root includes pliqué and plique-à-jour. Plique-à-jour describes an enamel technique that leaves open spaces between metal compartments, resembling stained glass, while pliqué variants refer to fused or layered enamel work. These terms are distinct from, though etymologically related to, the unaccented “plique.”

As a proper noun, Plique can occur as a surname or place name in some contexts, but it is not established as a widely recognized subject of study or a canonical technical term in major reference works.

See also: plissé, plié, pliqué, plique-à-jour.