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Coffer: meaning, definitions and examples

๐Ÿ’ผ
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coffer

 

[ หˆkษ”หfษ™r ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

storage container

A coffer is a strongbox or a chest used for storing valuable items, such as money or important documents. Traditionally, coffers were often used in homes and businesses to secure valuables and were often locked for added security. They can come in various sizes and designs, from simple wooden boxes to ornate metal chests. In addition to being functional, coffers can also serve as decorative pieces in a room.

Synonyms

box, chest, safe, strongbox

Examples of usage

  • She opened the coffer to reveal old coins.
  • The family kept their jewelry in a beautiful coffer.
  • He stored important documents in a fireproof coffer.
Context #2 | Noun

architectural term

In architecture, a coffer refers to a sunken panel in a ceiling, dome, or vault. These panels are often geometrically patterned and used for aesthetic purposes, as well as to reduce the weight of the structure. Coffering adds visual interest to ceilings and can make spaces appear larger and more open. Historically, coffered ceilings have been used in grand buildings, such as churches and government structures.

Synonyms

depression, panel, recess

Examples of usage

  • The coffered ceiling gave the room an elegant look.
  • We admired the intricate designs of the coffer panels.
  • Coffering was a popular technique in Renaissance architecture.

Translations

Translations of the word "coffer" in other languages:

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡น caixa

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ณ เค•เฅ‹เคท

๐Ÿ‡ฉ๐Ÿ‡ช Truhe

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ฉ peti

๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ัะบั€ะธะฝั

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡ฑ skrzynia

๐Ÿ‡ฏ๐Ÿ‡ต ๅฎ็ฎฑ

๐Ÿ‡ซ๐Ÿ‡ท coffre

๐Ÿ‡ช๐Ÿ‡ธ cofre

๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿ‡ท sandฤฑk

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ท ์ƒ์ž

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ุตู†ุฏูˆู‚

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ฟ truhla

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฐ truhla

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ณ ็ฎฑๅญ

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฎ skrinja

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ธ kista

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ฟ า›ะพั€ะฐะฟ

๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ช แƒกแƒ™แƒ

๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡ฟ qutu

๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฝ cofre

Etymology

The word 'coffer' originates from the Latin word 'cophinus', which means 'basket' or 'box'. Its etymology can be traced back to the Old French 'cofre', which signifies a chest or strongbox, especially one for valuables. Over time, the term evolved in Middle English as 'coffer', retaining the meaning of a secure storage container. The usage of 'coffer' in architectural contexts likely developed from the same concept of a container, as coffers in ceilings resemble boxes in form. The term has been widely used in literature and art, symbolizing security, wealth, and craftsmanship throughout history.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,077, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.