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Fanlight: meaning, definitions and examples

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fanlight

 

[ ˈfænˌlaɪt ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

architecture design

A fanlight is a decorative window above a door that is usually semicircular or elliptical in shape, with radiating bars resembling a fan. Commonly found in Georgian and Victorian architecture, fanlights serve both functional and aesthetic purposes, allowing natural light to enter an entryway while enhancing the overall architectural appeal of the building. They often have glass panes that can be intricately designed, and their styles may vary significantly based on the period and location. Fanlights are typically situated above the front doors of homes and public buildings.

Synonyms

overlight, transom

Examples of usage

  • The historic home featured a beautifully crafted fanlight above the entrance.
  • Architects often incorporate fanlights to add elegance to modern designs.
  • The fanlight illuminated the foyer with gentle, diffused light.

Translations

Translations of the word "fanlight" in other languages:

🇵🇹 ventilador de luz

🇮🇳 पंखा रोशनी

🇩🇪 Lichtfan

🇮🇩 kipas cahaya

🇺🇦 вентилятор світла

🇵🇱 wentylator świetlny

🇯🇵 ファンライト

🇫🇷 ventilateur de lumière

🇪🇸 ventilador de luz

🇹🇷 ışık fanı

🇰🇷 팬라이트

🇸🇦 مروحة ضوئية

🇨🇿 světelný ventilátor

🇸🇰 svetelný ventilátor

🇨🇳 灯扇

🇸🇮 ventilator svetlobe

🇮🇸 ljósvifta

🇰🇿 жарық желдеткіші

🇬🇪 სინათლის ვენტილატორი

🇦🇿 işıq ventilyatoru

🇲🇽 ventilador de luz

Etymology

The word 'fanlight' originated in the early 19th century, combining the term 'fan' to describe the radial design resembling a fan and 'light' to denote its function in allowing light to enter. Its roots can be traced back to the combination of architectural styles prevalent during the Georgian and Victorian periods in England. The design of fanlights became popular as part of the grand entryways characteristic of these eras, showcasing ornate craftsmanship and attention to detail. Over the years, fanlights have evolved in design and materials, reflecting the changing trends in architecture while maintaining their historical significance. Today, fanlights are appreciated not only for their practical use but also for their beauty and ability to enhance the visual landscape of buildings.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #38,329, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.