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Slats Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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slats

[slæts ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

furniture

A series of thin, narrow strips of wood or metal used in construction, often to support a mattress.

Synonyms

bar, beam, plank.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
slats

Used to describe thin, narrow strips of material, often wood or metal, that are arranged side by side.

  • The slats of the window blinds were broken.
  • He laid down slats for the foundation of the fence.
plank

Describes a long, flat piece of timber, thicker than a slat, often used in flooring, construction, or shipbuilding.

  • They walked across the old wooden plank bridge.
  • Each plank for the deck was carefully measured and cut.
bar

Refers to a long, rigid piece of solid material, usually metal or wood, and can also be a place where drinks are served.

  • She placed a bar across the door for extra security.
  • We met at the bar downtown last Friday.
beam

Typically used in construction to refer to a long, sturdy piece of wood or metal that supports weight, often part of a building structure.

  • The ceiling beam was exposed to give a rustic feel to the room.
  • Workers installed a steel beam to reinforce the wall.

Examples of usage

  • The bed frame was made of sturdy slats.
  • She replaced the broken slats on the bench.
Context #2 | Noun

aviation

A movable control surface on the trailing edge of an aircraft wing, used to control roll.

Synonyms

aileron, flap, spoiler.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
slats

Used mainly in aviation, slats are movable control surfaces on the leading edge of an aircraft's wing. They are deployed to increase lift at lower speeds, particularly during takeoff and landing.

  • The pilot extended the slats to prepare for landing.
  • Deploying the slats can help improve the aircraft's aerodynamic performance at low speeds.
flap

Flaps are hinged surfaces on the trailing edge of the wings, used to increase the lift or drag of an aircraft. They are typically used during takeoff and landing to allow the aircraft to fly at lower speeds.

  • The pilot extended the flaps to prepare for landing.
  • Lowering the flaps provided additional lift during takeoff.
aileron

An aileron is a hinged flight control surface on the trailing edge of the wing, used mainly to control the aircraft's roll and maintain level flight.

  • The pilot used the aileron to make a sharp right turn.
  • Adjusting the aileron helped stabilize the aircraft during turbulence.
spoiler

Spoilers are devices that can be deployed on the wing of an aircraft to decrease lift and increase drag. They are used during descent and landing to help slow down the aircraft.

  • The pilot deployed the spoilers to reduce the speed of the aircraft.
  • Spoilers are essential for reducing lift and aiding in the aircraft's descent.

Examples of usage

  • The pilot adjusted the slats for a smoother landing.
  • The slats were extended during takeoff.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Architecture

  • Slats are often used in modern architecture for privacy screens, helping define outdoor spaces without blocking air flow.
  • In some designs, slats provide a rhythmic aesthetic, creating an elegant appearance on either walls or frames.
  • Environmental considerations have led to the use of slats in energy-efficient buildings, enhancing ventilation and light control.

Furniture Design

  • In furniture, slats can be found in beds, supporting a mattress without needing a box spring.
  • The design of slatted chairs allows for flexibility and comfort, adapting to different body shapes.
  • Using slats helps reduce weight in furniture while maintaining strength, making pieces easier to move.

Cultural Impact

  • Slats in traditional shoji screens reflect Japanese aesthetics, allowing light to filter while maintaining privacy.
  • In modern interior design, exposed slats create a trendy unfinished look, popular in rustic and minimalistic spaces.
  • Different cultures use slats variably; they can be found in everything from wooden cots in Europe to woven privacy screens in Southeast Asia.

Safety Considerations

  • When designing children's furniture, slats are placed adequately apart to prevent accidents, like limbs getting stuck.
  • In construction, ensuring slats are sturdy and well-installed is crucial for safety in structures like ladders and staircases.
  • Regulations often govern the spacing and strength of slats in safety barriers to protect children and pets.

Origin of 'slats'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'slat' comes from the Middle Dutch word 'slatte', referring to a thin piece or slice of wood.
  • In Old English, similar terms referred to wooden strips or fragments found in constructions.
  • By the late 19th century, 'slat' evolved to describe specific items like those used in furniture and blinds.

The word 'slats' originated from Middle English 'slatten', meaning a thin strip of wood. It has been used in the English language since the 14th century.

See also: slat, slate.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,364, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.