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Awning Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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awning

[หˆษ”หnษชล‹ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

shelter

A sheet of canvas or other material stretched on a frame and used to keep the sun or rain off a storefront, window, doorway, or deck.

Synonyms

canopy, cover, shade.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
awning

An awning is usually a fabric cover that is attached to the exterior of a building, often above windows or doors, to provide shade and shelter from the elements.

  • We sat under the awning to stay out of the sun.
  • The restaurant installed awnings to shield the outdoor dining area from rain.
canopy

A canopy is a covering that can be either fabric or metal, often supported by poles, and used to provide shelter or decoration over an area. It can be temporary or permanent.

  • The wedding ceremony was held under a beautiful floral canopy.
  • They set up a canopy at the beach to provide some shade.
shade

Shade refers to a place or condition blocked from direct sunlight, often created by an object or structure. It emphasizes the comfort from avoiding sunlight and heat.

  • We found a spot in the shade to escape the midday heat.
  • The large tree provided plenty of shade during the picnic.
cover

Cover is a general term that refers to anything that lies over or upon something to protect, conceal, or hide it. It can refer to a variety of materials and uses.

  • She placed a cover over the equipment to protect it from dust.
  • He used a plastic cover to shield the furniture during the renovation.

Examples of usage

  • The restaurant had a colorful awning to provide shade for the outdoor seating area.
  • The awning over the shop entrance protected customers from the rain.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The word 'awning' comes from the Middle English 'awnynge,' which is believed to have originated from the Old French 'avaine,' meaning 'to cover.'
  • In ancient times, people used animal skins and woven materials as outdoor shades long before modern awnings existed.
  • The earliest documented use of awnings dates back to ancient Egypt, where they were employed to shield nobility from the sun.

Architecture

  • Awnings have been popular in architecture for centuries, providing both aesthetic appeal and functional benefits.
  • They come in various stylesโ€”like retractable, fixed, and canopyโ€”which add character to buildings while improving energy efficiency.
  • Research shows that awnings can reduce indoor temperatures and decrease energy costs by up to 25% during hot weather.

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, awnings reflect local styles, such as the bright striped awnings commonly found in cafes in Paris.
  • In the United States, awnings often signify picturesque towns with a rich history of outdoor dining and socializing.
  • Historically, awnings also served as advertising spaces, showcasing business names and enticing customers to enter.

Modern Uses

  • Today, awnings are made from advanced materials like acrylic and fiberglass, making them durable and weather-resistant.
  • Smart awnings can now be motorized and equipped with sensors to automatically retract in extreme weather conditions.
  • Retractable awnings offer flexibility, allowing users to adapt outdoor space for sun or shade depending on the time of day.

Environmental Impact

  • Awnings contribute to sustainable architecture by reducing the need for air conditioning in buildings.
  • They are often made with eco-friendly materials, supporting green construction practices.
  • By blocking sunlight, awnings can help decrease the urban heat island effect in densely populated areas.

Origin of 'awning'

The word 'awning' originated from the Middle English 'awninge', which came from the Old French 'auvans', meaning 'a sail'. The concept of using awnings for shelter dates back to ancient Egyptian and Syrian civilizations. Awnings became popular in Europe during the 19th century as a way to provide shade and protect against the elements.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,486, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.