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Foyer: meaning, definitions and examples

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foyer

 

[ˈfɔɪər ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

in a house

A foyer is an entrance hall or other open area in a house, apartment, hotel, or theatre.

Synonyms

entrance, entrance hall, hallway, lobby.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
foyer

A foyer is often used in more upscale or formal settings, such as hotels, theaters, and large houses. It's a large, open area near the entrance where people can gather and wait.

  • We waited in the hotel foyer before our room was ready.
  • The theater foyer was filled with excited guests.
entrance hall

An entrance hall typically refers to a hallway or lobby area just inside the main entrance of a house or a smaller building. It is often where guests are greeted.

  • The entrance hall was decorated with family photos.
  • They placed a bench in the entrance hall for convenience.
lobby

A lobby is a space inside the main entrance of a building, especially a hotel, office, or apartment building. It is usually designed for people to wait or meet others.

  • The hotel lobby was spacious and luxurious.
  • They agreed to meet in the lobby of the office building.
entrance

An entrance simply refers to the place where one enters a building. It is a general term and can be used in most situations.

  • There is a small garden near the entrance of the building.
  • Please use the main entrance to enter the museum.
hallway

A hallway is a corridor in a building that leads to different rooms. It's a narrower space compared to a foyer and is found in both homes and public buildings.

  • The paintings in the hallway gave the house a vintage feel.
  • She walked down the hallway to get to her classroom.

Examples of usage

  • The grand staircase led up from the foyer.
  • She waited in the foyer for her guests to arrive.
Context #2 | Noun

in a theatre

In a theatre, the foyer is the area in front of the auditorium where people can gather before the show or during intermissions.

Synonyms

entrance hall, foyer space, lobby.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
foyer

Mainly used to describe a spacious, formal meeting area at the front of a building, often in hotels, theaters, or large public buildings.

  • We met in the foyer before the concert began.
  • The hotel foyer was elegantly decorated.
lobby

Frequently used to describe a public area in a hotel, office building, or other large structure where people can wait or meet. It often has seating and reception services.

  • I'll wait for you in the hotel lobby.
  • The office building had a spacious lobby with comfortable seating.
entrance hall

Commonly used to describe the area immediately inside the front door of a house or building, where people enter. Usually more informal and can be smaller in comparison to other options.

  • Please leave your shoes in the entrance hall.
  • Our entrance hall needs a new coat of paint.

Examples of usage

  • The foyer was crowded with people waiting for the show to start.
  • We met our friends in the foyer during intermission.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'foyer' comes from Middle French, meaning 'hearth' or 'fireplace', which refers to the warm, welcoming nature of these spaces.
  • It was first adopted into English around the early 19th century, primarily used in the context of homes and theaters.
  • Interestingly, its usage expanded in the U.S. to describe areas that serve as lounges or waiting rooms.

Architecture

  • Foyers often feature large, open designs to create an inviting atmosphere, sometimes adorned with artwork or chandeliers.
  • In large buildings, they can serve multiple purposes, including ticket sales, information desks, and social areas.
  • The design can vary from luxurious spaces in theaters to simple and functional areas in small homes.

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, the foyer serves as the first impression of a home or establishment, setting the tone for what is to come.
  • Architecturally, foyers can reflect the style of the rest of the building, showcasing cultural values through design elements.
  • In theaters and cinemas, the foyer is often a social hub where people gather before performances, creating a sense of community.

Literature

  • Foyers often symbolize transition in literature, as they are spaces between outside and inside, or between different social settings.
  • In many novels, a character’s entrance or exit through a foyer can signify significant emotional or narrative shifts.
  • Authors have used foyer scenes to develop tension or anticipation, making it a powerful literary device.

Psychology

  • The layout and design of a foyer can impact mood, making it an important space for first impressions and emotional responses.
  • Studies show that people are more likely to feel welcomed in spaces that are bright and decorated, which is often how foyers are designed.
  • A well-designed foyer can reduce anxiety in guests, promoting comfort as they transition into a new space.

Translations

Translations of the word "foyer" in other languages:

🇵🇹 saguão

🇮🇳 प्रवेश कक्ष

🇩🇪 Foyer

🇮🇩 foyer

🇺🇦 фойє

🇵🇱 foyer

🇯🇵 ロビー

🇫🇷 foyer

🇪🇸 vestíbulo

🇹🇷 fuaye

🇰🇷 현관

🇸🇦 ردهة

🇨🇿 foyer

🇸🇰 foyer

🇨🇳 门厅

🇸🇮 foyer

🇮🇸 forstofa

🇰🇿 фойе

🇬🇪 ფოიე

🇦🇿 foyer

🇲🇽 vestíbulo

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,038, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.