Parlour Meaning and Definition
Parlour
Pronunciation
/ˈpɑrˌluːr/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A room or space for socializing, meeting, or relaxation, often found in hotels, homes, or other buildings.
Examples
- The hotel offered a cozy parlour with a fireplace and comfortable chairs.
- The family gathered in the parlour to play games and have a cup of tea.
Synonyms
- Lounge
- Salon
- Reception room
Antonyms
- Kitchen
- Bedroom
Etymology
The word “parlour” comes from the Old French word “paroir”, meaning “to speak”, and was first used in the 15th century to describe a room for conversation and socializing.
Usage Notes
The term “parlour” is commonly used in British English, while in American English, a similar room is often referred to as a “living room” or “sitting room”.
Cultural References
The parlour has been featured prominently in various works of literature, including Jane Austen’s novels, where it serves as a symbol of social status and refinement.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
“The parlour game” refers to a social gathering where people engage in activities such as board games, cards, or other forms of entertainment.
Related Words or Phrases
Words related to parlour include “drawing room”, “sitting room”, and “salon”.
Collocations
Common collocations with parlour include “parlour games”, “parlour furniture”, and “parlour tea”.
Frequency of Use
The word “parlour” is not as commonly used in modern language as it once was, but it remains a useful term for describing a specific type of room or space.
Common Misspellings
Common misspellings of “parlour” include “parlor”, “palour”, and “parloru”.