Carrels have become a vital component of many academic libraries, providing students with a personal area to study, write, and research. These spaces are often equipped with desks, lighting, and sometimes even computers or other resources for research. Today, carrels are commonly found in universities, research institutions, and public libraries, offering a dedicated area for uninterrupted work. Many libraries reserve carrels for students working on long-term projects or theses, allowing them to focus in a quiet environment free from distractions. The trend towards creating individual study spaces reflects a broader shift in educational environments toward providing students with the tools and resources they need to excel in their work.
carrel in English
- carrel⇄carrel orcarrell, noun.
a small enclosed place for individual study in a library, usually containing a desk and bookshelves.
Ex. Collegians study hard ... in the 500 carrells of the Firestone Library at Princeton (Newsweek).
carrel in Gujarati ગુજરાતી
Carrel
Part of Speech
Noun
Pronunciation
/ˈkærəl/
Definitions
- Carrel (noun): A small, enclosed space or cubicle, often in a library, designed for individual study or work.
- Carrel (noun): A small room, usually in a university or research institution, intended for individual use, typically for studying or writing.
Usage Examples
- "She found a quiet carrel in the library to finish her research paper."
- "The student spent most of the semester working in the carrel, focusing on his thesis."
Etymology
The word "carrel" originates from Middle French "carrel," meaning a small room or space, which itself is derived from "carrel," meaning a small area or compartment. The term likely comes from "carrel" in Old French, referring to a small space or chamber used for solitary work or study.
Synonyms and Antonyms
- Synonyms: cubicle, study, nook, booth, office
- Antonyms: open space, public area
Translations
| Language | Translation | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Spanish | Cubículo | /kuˈβikulu/ |
| French | Carrel | /kaʁɛl/ |
| German | Arbeiterbüro | /ˈʔaʁbaɪtɐˌbyːʁo/ |
| Italian | Studio | /ˈstudjo/ |
| Portuguese | Cabine | /kaˈbini/ |
| Russian | Кабинет | /kəˈbʲinʲɪt/ |
| Mandarin Chinese | 学习室 | /xuéxí shì/ |
| Arabic | غرفة دراسة | /ɣurfat dirāsa/ |
| Hindi | अध्यान कक्ष | /adhyān kakṣ/ |
| Japanese | 学習室 | /gakushū shitsu/ |
Regional Pronunciation Variations
In some regions, especially in older academic institutions, the pronunciation of "carrel" may have a slightly more French influence, while in English-speaking countries, it tends to be pronounced with a hard "r." In American English, the emphasis is placed on the first syllable, while in British English, it may have a slightly softer "r" sound.
Historical Usage
Carrels were first introduced in libraries and academic settings during the 19th century, particularly in European and American universities. The small, private spaces provided students and scholars with a quiet environment conducive to focused work and study. Over time, the concept of the carrel became standard in libraries and research centers worldwide.
Cultural Nuances
The use of carrels as a study space has become ingrained in academic culture, particularly in university environments where individual, quiet study is necessary. In some cultures, the carrel represents personal space, a place where individuals can focus on their academic work without distractions. In others, the concept may be seen as a way to foster solitary reflection or deep intellectual engagement.