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Parlor Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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parlor

[ˈpɑːrlər ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

room

A sitting room in a private house.

Synonyms

drawing room, living room, lounge.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
parlor

This word has already been described above, so it seems to be a duplicate in the list.
living room

A common term for a room in a house used for everyday family activities like watching TV, reading, or socializing. This is the most widely used term in modern homes.

  • They spent the evening watching a movie in the living room.
  • The kids were playing games in the living room.
lounge

Often used interchangeably with 'living room' but can also refer to a relaxing area in public venues like airports, hotels, or clubs. It gives a sense of a comfortable, casual place.

  • They relaxed in the lounge after a long day.
  • We waited in the airport lounge before our flight.
drawing room

More formal than a living room, a drawing room is usually used in larger houses for hosting guests and social gatherings. It's less commonly used in modern times.

  • The guests were entertained in the drawing room.
  • She decorated the drawing room with elegant furniture.

Examples of usage

  • She was waiting for him in the parlor.
  • The parlor was elegantly decorated with antique furniture.
Context #2 | Noun

business

A shop or business providing specific services, such as a beauty parlor.

Synonyms

barbershop, beauty salon, salon.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
parlor

Used for places providing specific services like ice cream parlors or tattoo parlors.

  • We went to the ice cream parlor for dessert.
  • She got her first tattoo at a local tattoo parlor.
salon

Used more broadly to refer to places offering haircuts, hairstyling, and beauty treatments. It can also refer to a gathering for intellectual discussion.

  • She booked an appointment at the salon for a new hairstyle.
  • They hosted a literary salon every month to discuss new books.
beauty salon

Used for places offering a variety of beauty services like haircuts, hairstyling, manicures, and facials.

  • She spent the afternoon at the beauty salon getting ready for the wedding.
  • The beauty salon offers a wide range of skincare treatments.
barbershop

Used for places where men's haircuts and shaves are done.

  • He went to the barbershop for his monthly haircut.
  • The barbershop was bustling with customers on a Saturday morning.

Examples of usage

  • She goes to the parlor every week to get her hair done.
  • The new nail parlor in town is very popular.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • During the Victorian era, parlors were often decorated with elaborate furniture and art, symbolizing social status and refinement.
  • In many cultures, parlors serve as a familial gathering space, reinforcing traditions, stories, and relationships.
  • The idea of the parlor has transitioned into modern times with cafes and coffee shops, which serve a similar purpose for socializing.

Literature and Arts

  • Parlors have been featured in classic literature as settings for significant conversations that propel the story forward.
  • Many paintings and artistic depictions reflect the elegance of parlors, highlighting their role in shaping the social dynamics of the era.
  • Dramatic works often utilize parlors as stages for intense dialogues between characters, emphasizing interpersonal conflicts.

Psychology

  • The design and atmosphere of a parlor can influence mood and social interactions, supporting the psychology of space.
  • Social psychologists suggest that environments like parlors can affect conversation quality and relationship-building.
  • Warm colors and inviting decor in a parlor can create a sense of safety, fostering openness in discussions.

Architecture

  • Historically, parlors were designed with large windows and soft lighting to create a welcoming ambiance for guests.
  • The architectural style of a parlor can vary significantly by region, reflecting local customs and climate preferences.
  • Many modern homes have reinterpreted the concept of a parlor into multipurpose spaces that blend casual and formal functionality.

Origin of 'parlor'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'parlor' comes from the Old French term 'parlor', which means 'to speak', reflecting its original purpose for conversation.
  • In the Middle Ages, parlors were rooms for private discussions, indicating their importance in social gatherings during that time.
  • As homes evolved, the term began to represent rooms that showcased style, comfort, and hospitality.

The word 'parlor' originated in the late 13th century from the Old French word 'parleor', which means 'speaking room'. The concept of a 'parlor' as a sitting room in a private house became popular in the 18th century. Over time, the term expanded to include businesses that provide specific services, such as beauty parlors and nail salons.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,989, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.