n. In arch, and joinery, a bead; collectively, the beads used in ornamenting a given structure or surface.n. In bookbinding, see bead, n., 10.n. In com., a preparation added to weak spirituous liquors to cause them to carry a bead, and to hang in pearly drops about the sides of the bottle or glass when poured out or shaken, it being a popular notion that spirit is strong in proportion as it shows such globules.