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Loft Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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loft

[lษ’ft ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

living space

A room or space directly under the roof of a house or other building, typically used for accommodation or storage.

Synonyms

attic, garret, upper room.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
loft

A loft often refers to a large, open space usually found in older industrial buildings or barns that have been converted into living quarters. It's often associated with urban living and modern, stylish apartments.

  • They decided to buy a loft in the city center.
  • The artist's studio was located in a spacious loft.
attic

An attic is a room or space directly under the roof of a house, often used for storage. It's generally associated with residential homes and can sometimes be converted into an extra bedroom or living space.

  • We keep old furniture and memorabilia in the attic.
  • She transformed the attic into a cozy reading room.
garret

A garret is a small, often cramped and usually dimly-lit attic room, typically found in older houses and often associated with artists or writers working in humble conditions. It has a somewhat negative connotation due to its association with poverty and discomfort.

  • The starving artist lived and painted in his tiny garret.
  • Her garret was sparsely furnished, with just a bed and a writing desk.
upper room

An upper room is a general term that can refer to any room located on an upper floor of a building. It is neutral and can be used in various contexts, from homes to commercial buildings.

  • The family gathered in the upper room for the holiday dinner.
  • She rented an upper room in the hotel for her stay.

Examples of usage

  • The loft has been converted into a cozy bedroom.
  • We store our seasonal decorations in the loft.
Context #2 | Noun

entertainment

A gallery or upper level in a theater, church, or other public building.

Synonyms

balcony, gallery, mezzanine.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
loft

An upper room or floor in a building, typically used for storage or as a living space, often found in barns or industrial buildings converted into living spaces.

  • They turned the old barn's loft into a cozy living room.
  • I store my winter clothes in the loft above the garage.
gallery

A space for displaying art or a long, narrow room or balcony that provides a high vantage point, often found in theaters or large public spaces.

  • The art gallery will feature works by local artists this weekend.
  • We sat in the theater gallery, where we had a great view of the stage.
balcony

A platform projecting from the wall of a building, typically work or recreational outdoor space attached to an upper floor, often found in apartments or theaters.

  • We had our morning coffee on the balcony overlooking the park.
  • She stood on the balcony and waved to the people below.
mezzanine

An intermediate floor between the main floors of a building, typically found in theaters, stores, or hotels, often used for additional seating or a lounge area.

  • Our hotel room is on the mezzanine level, right above the lobby.
  • They added a mezzanine to the store for extra retail space.

Examples of usage

  • The VIP section is located in the loft of the club.
  • She watched the concert from the loft.
Context #3 | Verb

increase

To increase the level of something, especially prices, beyond what is justified.

Synonyms

boost, elevate, raise.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
loft

Use 'loft' when talking about lifting something to a considerable height, often in the context of sports or throwing an object.

  • He lofted the ball high into the air
raise

Use 'raise' in a broad range of situations, from lifting objects to increasing amounts, growing children, or asking questions.

  • Please raise your hand if you have a question
  • They plan to raise prices next year
  • She needs to raise the baby on her own
elevate

Use 'elevate' to speak about raising something to a higher position, both in a physical and metaphorical sense, often used in more formal contexts.

  • The doctor said to elevate your leg to reduce swelling
  • Meditation can elevate your state of mind
boost

Use 'boost' when you want to talk about increasing or improving something, often in the context of energy, confidence, or success.

  • We need to boost sales this quarter
  • Her compliment boosted his confidence

Examples of usage

  • The landlord decided to loft the rent by 20%.
  • The company lofted the price of their products.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Architecture

  • Lofts are commonly associated with urban living, especially in repurposed industrial buildings.
  • They often feature open floor plans, with few walls separating living spaces, creating flexible environments.
  • Many artists and creatives prefer loft living due to the spaciousness and natural light available.

Cultural Significance

  • In some cultures, lofts symbolize freedom and independence, particularly for artists and young professionals.
  • Loft-style apartments have become a trendy option in cities, blending modernity with historical charm.
  • In literature and film, lofts often represent a character's desire for a fresh start or a break from conventional life.

Interior Design

  • Loft spaces are frequently designed with minimalistic decor to maintain a sense of openness and airiness.
  • Exposed beams and large windows are common features, contributing to the industrial chic aesthetic.
  • The challenge in designing a loft is balancing cozy and functional areas in such a vast space.

Psychology

  • Loft spaces can evoke feelings of creativity due to their open nature, encouraging innovation and brainstorming.
  • Research suggests that high ceilings can enhance cognitive performance, making lofts appealing for workspaces.
  • Living in a loft may impact oneโ€™s emotional well-being, providing a sense of freedom that can reduce stress.

Origin of 'loft'

Main points about word origin

  • The word originates from Middle English 'loft', which means 'shelter' or 'upper room'.
  • It is related to the Old Norse word 'lopt', meaning 'air' or 'sky', reflecting the idea of height.
  • In ancient times, lofts were often used in castles or homes to provide sleeping space away from the cold ground.

The word 'loft' originated from Middle English, specifically from the Old English word 'loft' meaning 'air, sky, upper room, ceiling'. It has been in use since the 13th century to refer to a space under the roof of a building. Over time, the term expanded to include various meanings related to living spaces, entertainment venues, and even as a verb to indicate an increase in something. The evolution of 'loft' showcases its versatility and adaptability in the English language.

See also: loftily, lofty.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,154, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.