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Roof Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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roof

[ruːf ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

house

The structure forming the upper covering of a building or vehicle

Synonyms

canopy, ceiling, top.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
roof

Used to describe the covering on the top of buildings or structures. Generally used in construction and architecture.

  • The roof was damaged during the storm
  • We need to repair the roof before winter
top

Used to denote the highest point of a structure or object. Often used in general and everyday contexts.

  • The top of the mountain was covered in snow
  • She placed the book on the top shelf
ceiling

Refers to the upper interior surface of a room. Mostly used in contexts related to interior design and architecture.

  • The ceiling in the living room is beautifully decorated
  • A crack appeared on the ceiling after the earthquake
canopy

Used to refer to a cover or shelter that is often made of fabric and supported on poles or suspended above something. Commonly used in the context of outdoor shelters or the upper layer of a forest.

  • We set up the canopy to provide shade during the picnic
  • The dense canopy of the rainforest protects many species

Examples of usage

  • The roof of the house was damaged in the storm
  • He climbed onto the roof to fix the leak
Context #2 | Noun

car

The top covering of a car or vehicle

Synonyms

canopy, hood, top.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
roof

Used when talking about the structure that covers the top of a building or house to protect from weather conditions.

  • The roof was damaged during the storm
  • We need to fix the leaks in the roof
top

Refers to the highest or uppermost part of something, which is not necessarily a protective cover.

  • She placed the book on the top shelf
  • They reached the top of the mountain after a long hike
hood

Commonly used to describe the cover over the engine of a car, or a part of clothing that covers the head.

  • He opened the hood to check the engine
  • She pulled up her hood when it started to rain
canopy

Used when referring to an overhead covering that provides shade or shelter, often found in forests or as fabric covers at events.

  • They set up a canopy at the park for the picnic
  • The canopy of trees provided shelter from the rain

Examples of usage

  • The convertible car's roof can be folded down
  • The bird left a dropping on the car's roof
Context #3 | Verb

cover

To cover a building or vehicle with a roof

Synonyms

cover, protect, shelter.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
roof

Used when referring to the structure that covers the top of a building.

  • We need to repair the roof before the rainy season.
  • The house has a red-tile roof.
cover

Used in a general sense to mean placing something over an object or area to protect or conceal it.

  • She used a blanket to cover her legs.
  • Make sure to cover the pot to keep the heat in.
shelter

Used when referring to providing a safe place from weather or danger.

  • They found shelter from the storm under a large tree.
  • The organization helps provide shelter for homeless families.
protect

Used when talking about preventing harm or damage to someone or something.

  • He wore a helmet to protect his head.
  • The software is designed to protect your computer from viruses.

Examples of usage

  • The workers will roof the new house next week
  • We need to roof the garage before winter comes

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Architecture

  • Roofs can be flat or pitched, and the design often depends on the climate where the building is located.
  • Materials used for roofs vary widely, including thatch, wood, metal, and modern synthetic materials.
  • Historic roofs, such as those seen in medieval castles, served not only practical purposes but also showcased artistry, with intricate designs and decorations.

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, the roof has symbolic meanings, representing protection, security, and home.
  • Traditional Japanese architecture often features curved roofs to symbolize balance and harmony with nature.
  • The act of raising the roof is often celebrated in various cultures, marking the completion of major construction.

Environmental Aspects

  • Green roofs, which incorporate vegetation, help reduce heat, manage rainwater, and improve air quality.
  • Solar panels are often installed on roofs, transforming them into energy-generating surfaces for homes.
  • Reflective roofing materials can help lower energy costs by keeping buildings cooler in hot climates.

Pop Culture

  • Songs about roofs, like 'Raise the Roof', celebrate the idea of joy and community gatherings.
  • In movies and TV shows, rooftops often serve as key settings for romantic scenes, symbolizing connection and elevation above the mundane.
  • The phrase 'roof over your head' is commonly used to denote basic security and shelter in everyday language.

Origin of 'roof'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old English 'hrof', meaning 'roof' or 'top'.
  • It has Germanic roots, related to similar words in Dutch ('roof') and German ('Dach').
  • The concept of roofing materials dates back to ancient times, showcasing early human ingenuity.

The word 'roof' originated from the Old English word 'hrof', which is akin to Old Norse 'hrof'. It has been used in various forms in Germanic languages for centuries to refer to the top covering of a structure. The concept of a roof has evolved over time with different materials and styles being used to construct roofs. In modern times, roofs are an essential part of buildings for protection against weather elements and provide structural integrity.

See also: roofless, rooflessness.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,776, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.