Definition of "curtain" []

• Material that hangs in a window or other opening as a decoration, shade, or screen. (noun)
• Something that functions as or resembles a screen, cover, or barrier: the curtain of mist before the mountain; a heavy curtain of artillery fire. (noun)
• The movable screen or drape in a theater or hall that separates the stage from the auditorium or that serves as a backdrop. (noun)
• The rising or opening of a theater curtain at the beginning of a performance or act. (noun)
• The time at which a theatrical performance begins or is scheduled to begin. (noun)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

• "The term “iron curtain” was used in this sense as early as 1920, and Churchill had used it earlier in a telegram to President Harry Truman, May 12, 1945: “An iron curtain is drawn down upon their front."
• "Designed by Bauke Knottnerus this curtain is a great piece of conversation, that can also create the illusion of more space in any room."
• "As the curtain is about to go up on ActII – The Indictments, one awaits the destiny of whomsoever of the WHIGs is a mendacious warmonger."