Windowpane: meaning, definitions and examples

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windowpane

[ˈwɪndəʊˌpeɪn ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

in a house

A windowpane is a flat sheet of glass in a window.

Synonyms

glass pane, window glass.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
windowpane	This term is typically used to refer specifically to a single sheet of glass within the window frame. It often implies a more detailed description where the entire pane is of interest. The bird hit the windowpane and left a smudge on the glass. He replaced the broken windowpane with a new one.
glass pane	This phrase is often used in more formal or technical contexts, such as construction or repairs, where emphasis is on the material itself. It may also be used when discussing the thickness or quality of the glass. The glazier is installing a double glass pane for better insulation. You could see the condensation forming between the glass panes of the old window.
window glass	This term is fairly general and can be used in everyday conversation when referring to the glass part of the window without specifying much about it. It is suitable for casual contexts. She cleaned the window glass until it was spotless. Damage to the window glass can let in cold air.

Word

Description / Examples

windowpane

This term is typically used to refer specifically to a single sheet of glass within the window frame. It often implies a more detailed description where the entire pane is of interest.

The bird hit the windowpane and left a smudge on the glass.
He replaced the broken windowpane with a new one.

glass pane

This phrase is often used in more formal or technical contexts, such as construction or repairs, where emphasis is on the material itself. It may also be used when discussing the thickness or quality of the glass.

The glazier is installing a double glass pane for better insulation.
You could see the condensation forming between the glass panes of the old window.

window glass

This term is fairly general and can be used in everyday conversation when referring to the glass part of the window without specifying much about it. It is suitable for casual contexts.

She cleaned the window glass until it was spotless.
Damage to the window glass can let in cold air.

Examples of usage

The sun shone through the windowpane.
I accidentally broke the windowpane while cleaning the window.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

in a car

A windowpane is a movable glass panel in a vehicle.

Synonyms

car window, vehicle glass panel.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
windowpane	Used again, this word refers to the same context as previously mentioned, so might be redundant. The crack in the windowpane spread quickly after the storm
car window	Specifically refers to the windows in a car, such as side windows, windshields, or rear windows. He rolled down the car window to get some fresh air
vehicle glass panel	More technical term to refer to any glass component in a vehicle, including windows or glass panels in buses, trucks, etc. The mechanic replaced the damaged vehicle glass panel after the accident

Word

Description / Examples

windowpane

Used again, this word refers to the same context as previously mentioned, so might be redundant.

The crack in the windowpane spread quickly after the storm

car window

Specifically refers to the windows in a car, such as side windows, windshields, or rear windows.

He rolled down the car window to get some fresh air

vehicle glass panel

More technical term to refer to any glass component in a vehicle, including windows or glass panels in buses, trucks, etc.

The mechanic replaced the damaged vehicle glass panel after the accident

Examples of usage

I rolled down the windowpane to feel the breeze.
He looked out of the car windowpane.

^{Context #3 | Noun}

in architecture

A windowpane is a section of a window divided by vertical or horizontal bars.

Synonyms

muntin, sash bar.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
windowpane	Used to refer specifically to the glass part of a window. Suitable for general conversation or in contexts where clarity is needed about the glass. I need to clean the windowpane to let more light in. The windowpane cracked after the storm last night.
muntin	Used in architectural or construction contexts to describe the strips that hold panes of glass within a window. Often used by professionals or in detailed descriptions of window structures. The muntins in this window frame are made of wood. We need to replace the broken muntin to ensure the window is secure.
sash bar	Typically used in more technical discussions about window design, especially in older windows. Refers to the bar that holds the glass panes in a sash window. The sash bar needs to be repainted to match the rest of the window frame. Many traditional British windows feature a central sash bar.

Word

Description / Examples

windowpane

Used to refer specifically to the glass part of a window. Suitable for general conversation or in contexts where clarity is needed about the glass.

I need to clean the windowpane to let more light in.
The windowpane cracked after the storm last night.

muntin

Used in architectural or construction contexts to describe the strips that hold panes of glass within a window. Often used by professionals or in detailed descriptions of window structures.

The muntins in this window frame are made of wood.
We need to replace the broken muntin to ensure the window is secure.

sash bar

Typically used in more technical discussions about window design, especially in older windows. Refers to the bar that holds the glass panes in a sash window.

The sash bar needs to be repainted to match the rest of the window frame.
Many traditional British windows feature a central sash bar.

Examples of usage

The old house had windowpanes with intricate designs.
She admired the leaded windowpanes in the church.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'window' comes from the Old Norse term 'vindauga,' meaning 'wind eye,' reflecting its function of letting light in and keeping the wind out.
The term 'pane' derives from the Latin word 'panis,' which means 'bread,' but in this context refers to a flat piece as in a panel.
Combining 'window' and 'pane' reflects the practical need for both visibility and protection in architecture.

Architecture

The use of glass in windows started over 2,000 years ago, with early glass being very thick and not perfectly clear.
During the medieval period, stained glass windowpanes became symbols of wealth and artistry in cathedrals, telling stories through colorful designs.
Modern windowpanes utilize technology like insulated glazing to improve energy efficiency, reducing heat loss in buildings.

Cultural Significance

In literature, windows often symbolize opportunities and possibilities, inviting characters to look toward the future.
Artists like Edward Hopper used windowpanes in their work to convey feelings of isolation and the complexity of modern life.
In movies, windowpanes frequently serve as frames for pivotal scenes, emphasizing transitions between the inside world and outside reality.

Science

The transparency of glass is due to electromagnetic radiation, allowing visible light to pass through while blocking UV and infrared rays.
Different types of windowpane glass (like tempered or laminated) are created for durability, safety, and thermal performance.
Research continues into self-cleaning windowpanes that use special coatings to break down dirt with sunlight, making maintenance easier.

Psychology

Looking out of windowpanes can influence mood; studies show that access to natural light improves mental well-being and cognitive performance.
Window perspectives are often used in psychological treatments to offer a literal view on one's outlook in life, helping individuals visualize their situations.
Children enjoy creating stories behind windowpanes, which can stimulate imagination and creativity in their play.

Translations

Translations of the word "windowpane" in other languages:

🇵🇹 vidraça

🇮🇳 खिड़की का शीशा

🇩🇪 Fensterscheibe

🇮🇩 jendela kaca

🇺🇦 віконна шибка

🇵🇱 szyba okienna

🇯🇵 窓ガラス

🇫🇷 carreau

🇪🇸 cristal de ventana

🇹🇷 pencere camı

🇰🇷 창유리

🇸🇦 لوح زجاج النافذة

🇨🇿 okenní tabule

🇸🇰 okenná tabuľa

🇨🇳 窗玻璃

🇸🇮 okensko steklo

🇮🇸 gluggarúða

🇰🇿 терезе әйнегі

🇬🇪 ფანჯრის მინა

🇦🇿 pəncərə şüşəsi

🇲🇽 cristal de la ventana