Defn: A sort of ancient trimming of tinsel and thread for women's gowns; — called also bobbinwork. [Obs.] Piers Plowman.
PURFLE Pur"fle, v. t. Etym: [OF. pourfiler; pour for + fil a thread, L. filum. See Profile, and cf. Purl a border.]
1. To decorate with a wrought or flowered border; to embroider; to ornament with metallic threads; as, to purfle with blue and white. P. Plowman. A goodly lady clad in scarlet red, Purfled with gold and pearl of rich assay. Spenser.
2. (Her.)
Defn: To ornament with a bordure of emines, furs, and the like; also, with gold studs or mountings.
PURFLE; PURFLEW
Pur"fle, Pur"flew, n.
1. A hem, border., or trimming, as of embroidered work.
2. (Her.)
Defn: A border of any heraldic fur.
PURFLED
Pur"fled, a.