Ceiling Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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ceiling
[ˈsiːlɪŋ ]
Definitions
interior design
The upper interior surface of a room
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| ceiling |
Used to refer to the upper interior surface of a room, specifically inside buildings.
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| overhead |
Refers to something located above or higher up, more often used to describe things in the air or upper levels, not necessarily inside a building.
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| roof |
Used to refer to the exterior upper covering of a building, protecting it from weather elements.
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| top |
A more general term that refers to the highest part or point of something, can be used in various contexts both physical and metaphorical.
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Examples of usage
- The ceiling of the bedroom was painted white.
- The chandelier hung from the high ceiling.
architecture
The overhead interior surface of a covered space
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| ceiling |
In interior spaces, referring to the upper surface of a room.
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| overhead |
Used in various contexts to mean something physically above, often in financial terms or when talking about space.
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| roof |
Refers to the outside, top covering of a building that protects against weather.
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| top |
General term for the highest part of something, can be used in various contexts.
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Examples of usage
- The cathedral had a beautifully decorated ceiling.
- The glass ceiling of the conservatory allowed natural light in.
physics
The upper limit of altitude that a particular aircraft can reach
Synonyms
altitude limit, maximum height.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| ceiling |
Often used to describe the upper boundary of a room or an enclosed space. It can also refer to a limit or cap on something like salary.
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| maximum height |
Specifically refers to the greatest possible height that something can reach. Often used in contexts such as construction, amusement park rides, or describing physical dimensions.
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Examples of usage
- The fighter jet reached its ceiling of 50,000 feet.
- The aircraft's performance was limited by its ceiling.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Architecture
- Ceilings can be made from various materials like plaster, wood, or metal, and they play a crucial role in both aesthetics and acoustics.
- Different styles of ceilings, like coffered or vaulted, can enhance the visual appeal of a room and influence how sound travels.
Psychology
- Ceiling height can affect mood and perception; higher ceilings are often linked to feelings of freedom and spaciousness.
- In studies, individuals in rooms with lower ceilings are perceived to feel more constrained and closed in, impacting their overall comfort.
Pop Culture
- The phrase 'raising the ceiling' often refers to pushing boundaries, especially in discussions about success or progress.
- In movies, characters may look at ceilings as moments of contemplation, marking significant turning points in the narrative.
Safety and Building Codes
- In construction, building codes regulate ceiling heights in residential buildings to ensure comfort and safety.
- Certain professions, like architects and builders, must consider ceiling design carefully to maintain structural integrity and comply with safety standards.
Origin of 'ceiling'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'ceiling' comes from the Old French word 'ceiling', meaning 'to cover' or 'to seal'.
- It is related to the Latin word 'caelum', which means 'sky' or 'heaven' – representing an overhead expanse.
The word 'ceiling' originated from the Middle English word 'celing', which came from the Anglo-French 'cieling' and ultimately from the Latin 'caelum' meaning 'sky' or 'heaven'. The concept of ceilings has been present in architecture for centuries, with various styles and materials used to create decorative and functional overhead surfaces.