curtain
UK: ˈkɜːtn | US: ˈkɜːrtn
n. a piece of fabric hung to cover a window or divide a space
n. (theater) a screen or drape that separates the stage from the audience
vt. to provide or cover with curtains
The word "curtain" traces back to Latin cortina (a cauldron’s hanging cover or drape), later evolving in Old French to cortine (a veil or hanging screen). The Latin root curtus (short) hints at the function of curtains to "shorten" visibility or divide spaces. Over time, the term shifted from domestic covers to theatrical drapes, retaining its core idea of a suspended barrier.
She drew the curtains to block the sunlight.
The stage curtain rose slowly, revealing the actors.
They curtained the doorway with a heavy velvet drape.
The castle windows had ornate silk curtains.
A sudden breeze made the curtain flutter.