Hallway Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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hallway
[ˈhɔːlweɪ ]
Definitions
in a building
A hallway is a long narrow passage in a building, with rooms on one or both sides.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| hallway |
Typically used in homes, schools, and small buildings. It creates a casual and familiar tone.
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| corridor |
Used in more formal settings, like offices, hospitals, and large buildings. It suggests a longer and often narrower path.
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| passageway |
Often used to describe narrow or hidden paths, sometimes between buildings or within older structures. It can evoke a sense of mystery or historical context.
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Examples of usage
- The hallway was lined with pictures of famous artists.
- I heard footsteps echoing down the hallway.
in a school
A hallway in a school is a long passage with classrooms on either side.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| hallway |
Commonly used in residential buildings, referring to the area just inside the front door or a path inside the home.
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| corridor |
Often used in schools, hotels, hospitals, or office buildings, indicating a long, narrow area connecting rooms.
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| passageway |
Describes a narrow path or tunnel, usually in older or more formal contexts, and sometimes underground or not straightforward.
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Examples of usage
- The students gathered in the hallway before the bell rang.
- I saw my friend waiting for me in the hallway.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Architecture
- Hallways can vary greatly in design, from narrow corridors to wide, open spaces adorned with art and furniture.
- Historically, the layout of hallways played an essential role in controlling the flow of movement in a building.
Cultural Significance
- In literature and film, hallways often symbolize transitions or the journey between different parts of life or story arcs.
- Hallways are frequently used in horror films to create suspense, emphasizing isolation and the unknown.
Psychology
- Research suggests that long hallways can evoke feelings of anxiety or unease, especially in unfamiliar settings.
- Hallways can affect how people communicate; wider spaces promote more social interaction compared to narrow ones.
Usage in Everyday Life
- In homes, hallways often serve as spaces for family photos or decorative elements like mirrors and plants.
- School hallways are crucial for facilitating movement between classrooms and fostering social interactions among students.
Origin of 'hallway'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from Middle English 'hal' meaning 'hall' and 'wey' meaning 'way' or 'path'.
- In the 14th century, it referred to the passageways in large medieval homes or castles.
The word 'hallway' originated from the combination of 'hall' and 'way'. 'Hall' comes from the Old English word 'heall', meaning a large public building or a residence, while 'way' comes from the Old English word 'weg', meaning a path or route. The concept of a hallway has evolved over time to become an essential part of modern buildings, providing access to various rooms and spaces.