Coffer: meaning, definitions and examples
๐ผ
coffer
[ หkษหfษr ]
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
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.
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
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:
๐ต๐น caixa
๐ฎ๐ณ เคเฅเคท
๐ฉ๐ช Truhe
๐ฎ๐ฉ peti
๐บ๐ฆ ัะบัะธะฝั
๐ต๐ฑ skrzynia
๐ฏ๐ต ๅฎ็ฎฑ
๐ซ๐ท coffre
๐ช๐ธ cofre
๐น๐ท sandฤฑk
๐ฐ๐ท ์์
๐ธ๐ฆ ุตูุฏูู
๐จ๐ฟ truhla
๐ธ๐ฐ truhla
๐จ๐ณ ็ฎฑๅญ
๐ธ๐ฎ skrinja
๐ฎ๐ธ kista
๐ฐ๐ฟ าะพัะฐะฟ
๐ฌ๐ช แกแแ
๐ฆ๐ฟ qutu
๐ฒ๐ฝ 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.
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- 27074 fatalistic
- 27075 mimesis
- 27076 appetizing
- 27077 coffer
- 27078 onyx
- 27079 masochistic
- 27080 proneness
- ...