dormer

Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

English: /ˈdɔːrmər/

Phonetic: [DAWR-muhr]

Definitions

1. A window that projects from a sloping roof, typically used to add height to the upper floor of a building.
2. One who sleeps in a particular place, especially in a dormitory or similar setting.

Usage Examples

• "The house had several dormers to provide extra light in the attic."
• "The young man stayed in the dormer of the large university building."

Etymology

From Old French dormir, meaning "to sleep," referring to the sleeping quarters, originally associated with a dormitory-like space under the roof.

Synonyms

• Attic window
• Roof window
• Gabled window

Antonyms

• Flat roof
• Level roof

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• British English: /ˈdɔːmər/
• American English: /ˈdɔːrmər/

Historical Usage

The word "dormer" dates back to the early 14th century and has been used to describe windows in the upper parts of buildings, especially in attics or mansard roofs.

Cultural Nuances

The dormer window style is often associated with traditional European architecture, particularly in houses built in the 17th to 19th centuries. It symbolizes an architectural feature that enhances the use of upper spaces in a building.

More Information

In architectural design, dormers are popular for adding natural light and headspace to upper floors. They are typically found in buildings with sloped roofs and are a hallmark of the Victorian and Colonial Revival styles.