Paneling Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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paneling

[ˈpænəlɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

interior design

Paneling refers to a decorative covering made of wood or other materials used to cover walls. It is often used to add warmth and texture to a room.

Synonyms

cladding, panelling, woodwork.

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Word Description / Examples
paneling

Used primarily in the United States to describe the design and installation of flat, usually rectangular materials on walls or ceilings for decorative or protective purposes.

  • The living room was enhanced by the elegant paneling on the walls
  • The office renovation included new paneling for a more professional look
panelling

Commonly used in British English, similar to 'paneling' in the US; refers to the installation of flat panels on walls or ceilings, often for decorative reasons.

  • The Victorian house featured intricate wood panelling in the dining room
  • The hallway was given a sophisticated look with oak panelling
woodwork

Broadly refers to the craft and creation of items from wood, including furniture, decorative items, and structural components. It can also imply all wooden elements in a space, such as trim, moldings, and cabinetry.

  • He admired the intricate woodwork on the antique chair
  • The home's woodwork included beautiful crown molding and custom cabinets
cladding

Predominantly used in construction and architecture to refer to the layer of material applied to a building's exterior to provide thermal insulation, weather resistance, and aesthetic appeal.

  • The building's cladding was installed to improve its energy efficiency
  • Different materials can be used for cladding, such as metal, wood, and stone

Examples of usage

  • The paneling in the living room gives it a cozy feel.
  • The paneling in the office is made of dark wood.
Context #2 | Verb

action

Paneling can also refer to the act of forming a group of people to discuss or make decisions on a particular topic or issue.

Synonyms

assemble, convene, gather.

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Word Description / Examples
paneling

Refers to the decorative or functional covering or construction using panels, usually in architecture or interior design.

  • The living room was enhanced with beautiful wooden paneling
  • The office had sleek, modern paneling on the walls
assemble

Use when referring to the act of putting together objects or people into a structured group or arrangement, often for a specific purpose.

  • The team assembled in the conference room for the weekly meeting
  • The engineers assembled the components of the new machine
convene

Appropriate for formal or official gatherings, especially for meetings or councils.

  • The board of directors will convene at noon to discuss the budget
  • The committee convened to address the urgent issue
gather

Use for informal or casual collection of people or things, often for social purposes or in an unstructured manner.

  • Let's gather around the campfire and tell stories
  • The students gathered in the courtyard during lunch break

Examples of usage

  • They are paneling a group of experts to discuss the new project.
  • She will be paneling a meeting to address the concerns.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • Originally, paneling was used in ancient times to protect walls from dampness and to provide insulation.
  • In medieval Europe, wooden paneling became a popular feature in grand homes and castles for both decoration and warmth.

Architecture

  • Paneling can be found in various styles, including raised, flat, and beadboard, allowing for diverse aesthetics in interior design.
  • In contemporary architecture, paneling is used not just for walls but also for ceilings and furniture to create cohesive designs.

Cultural Trends

  • In the mid-20th century, wood paneling was often seen in suburban homes, giving a nostalgic feel to living spaces.
  • Different cultures have unique forms of paneling, such as Japanese Shoji screens, which serve both a practical and aesthetic purpose.

Material Science

  • Modern paneling can be made from various materials, including MDF, plywood, and even eco-friendly options like bamboo.
  • Some paneling is designed to be sustainable, using recycled materials to reduce environmental impact.

DIY and Crafting

  • Paneling has become a popular choice for DIY home projects, allowing homeowners to customize their space effectively on a budget.
  • Creative techniques, such as shiplap or board and batten styles, have recently revived interest in decorative paneling.

Origin of 'paneling'

The term 'paneling' originated from the Middle English word 'panele' which referred to a piece of wood. It has been used for centuries to adorn and insulate interior walls. Paneling became particularly popular in the 16th century as a way to display wealth and sophistication in homes.


See also: panelling.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,906, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.