Window: meaning, definitions and examples

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window

[ˈwɪndəʊ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

building

An opening in the wall or roof of a building, typically with glass in it, for admission of light and air.

Synonyms

aperture, opening, portal.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
window	A glass-filled opening in a wall typically used to let light in and for viewing outside. She looked out the window to see the beautiful garden Please close the window, it's getting cold
opening	A general term that can refer to any gap, hole, or space, which can be in walls, containers, or other objects. There was an opening in the fence where the dog escaped The opening at the top of the bottle was too small to pour the liquid easily
aperture	A technical term often used in photography and optics, referring to a hole or opening through which light travels. Adjust the aperture to control the exposure of your photograph The camera's aperture must be set correctly for the best photo
portal	An entrance or gateway, often used in a more grand or mystical sense, sometimes found in literature or fantasy contexts. They walked through the ancient portal into another realm The secret portal was hidden behind the old bookshelf

Examples of usage

The sun shone through the window.
She opened the window to let in some fresh air.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

computing

A rectangular area on a computer screen in which a user can view the contents of one file while being able to see another file.

Synonyms

interface, screen, viewport.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
window	Typically refers to a framed area on a computer screen where an application or document is displayed. It can also denote an opening in a wall or vehicle to let in light and air. I opened a new window in my browser to search for recipes. She looked out the window to see the snow falling.
screen	Usually denotes the physical part of an electronic device, like a monitor or TV, where information is displayed. It can also mean a barrier used to block, protect, or conceal something. He spends hours each day looking at a computer screen. A screen was set up to block the view of the construction site.
interface	Refers to the point of interaction between components, such as between software, hardware, or human users and a computer system. It emphasizes the functionality and design for user interaction. The software has a very user-friendly interface. You need to interface the printer with the computer using a USB cable.
viewport	Commonly used in web development, it refers to the visible area of a webpage on different devices. It is also used in graphics and CAD software to describe the portion of the workspace that is visible on the screen. The webpage didn’t look right on my phone because the viewport wasn’t correctly set. In the CAD program, adjust the viewport to focus on the area you are working on.

Examples of usage

I had my email program open in one window and my web browser in another.

^{Context #3 | Verb}

computing

Display or be displayed in a window.

Synonyms

display, present, show.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
window	Used to describe an opening in a wall, vehicle, or device to let light or air in or to see through. It can also refer to a period of time available for an activity or an opportunity. She looked out the window to see the beautiful garden. We have a two-hour window to finish the project.
display	Often used when referring to the act of showing something so that it can be seen by the public. It could be an exhibition, an electronic screen showing data, or behavior that is meant to be seen. The museum will display ancient artifacts next month. The laptop has a high-resolution display.
show	General term for making something visible to others, often used in informal or casual contexts. It can relate to demonstrating an object, a skill, or expressing emotions. Let me show you how to use this app. He showed everyone his new tattoo.
present	Commonly used for formally showing or offering something to a person or a group, such as information, a proposal, or an award. It implies a degree of preparation and formality. She will present her research findings at the conference. He presented the award to the winner.

Examples of usage

The error message window popped up on the screen.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word originated from Old Norse 'vindauga', meaning 'wind eye', highlighting the function of a window to let air and light in.
In Middle English, the spelling evolved to 'windowe', which reflects its Scandinavian roots.
Related terms in other languages, such as 'fenêtre' in French and 'fenster' in German, also refer to openings in buildings.

Architecture

Historically, windows were small openings for ventilation, often covered with wood or cloth before glass was invented.
During the Gothic period, large stained glass windows became popular, showcasing both beauty and storytelling in cathedrals.
Modern architecture uses various materials, including energy-efficient glass, allowing for larger and more efficient window designs.

Science

Windows play a crucial role in energy efficiency for buildings, impacting heating and cooling costs.
Glass is a poor heat conductor, allowing spaces to stay warm or cool depending on outside conditions, thanks to designs like double glazing.
Smart windows can change tint based on sunlight exposure, helping to regulate indoor temperature and reduce energy use.

Cultural Significance

Windows are often symbolic in literature and film, representing opportunities or new perspectives on life.
In many cultures, keeping windows clean is an important ritual, believed to welcome good luck and positive energy.
Windows are frequently featured in art, depicting themes of separation, longing, and connection to the outside world.

Technology

The term 'window' is also used in computing, referring to the rectangular area on a computer screen where applications run.
Graphical user interfaces rely on the concept of windows, allowing users to multitask and organize their workspace more efficiently.
The idea of windows in virtual reality enhances user immersion by creating different 'views' of digital environments.

Translations

Translations of the word "window" in other languages:

🇵🇹 janela

🇮🇳 खिड़की

🇩🇪 Fenster

🇮🇩 jendela

🇺🇦 вікно

🇵🇱 okno

🇯🇵 窓 (まど)

🇫🇷 fenêtre

🇪🇸 ventana

🇹🇷 pencere

🇰🇷 창문 (changmun)

🇸🇦 نافذة (naafida)

🇨🇿 okno

🇸🇰 okno

🇨🇳 窗户 (chuānghù)

🇸🇮 okno

🇮🇸 gluggi

🇰🇿 терезе

🇬🇪 ფანჯარა (panjara)

🇦🇿 pəncərə

🇲🇽 ventana

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #1,495, this word is part of core intermediate vocabulary. It appears regularly in various contexts and is essential for natural-sounding English.

...
1492 jury
1493 valuable
1494 inch
1495 window
1496 rapidly
1497 spread
1498 traffic
...