mantel etymology

Etymology:

• From Middle French mantel, from Old French mantel, from Late Latin mantellum, diminutive of mantile, from Latin manus ("hand") + -ele (diminutive suffix).

Meaning:

• A decorative covering or piece of fabric placed over a table, bed, or other surface.
• A shelf or ledge above a fireplace, used to support objects or provide a decorative touch.
• A layer or covering, such as a cloak or coat.

Origin:

The word "mantel" traces its origins back to the Latin word "manus," which means "hand." This is because the original function of a mantel was to protect a person's hands from the heat of a fireplace. The term "mantel" was first used in the 13th century to refer to a piece of fabric or wood that was placed over the front of a fireplace and hung from a metal rod or pole.

Over time, the meaning of "mantel" expanded to include any type of covering or decorative piece that was placed over a table, bed, or other surface. In the 16th century, the term began to be used to refer to the shelf or ledge that was placed above a fireplace, which served as a place to display ornaments or other items.

Today, the word "mantel" is used to refer to both the decorative covering and the shelf or ledge that is placed above a fireplace. It is a common feature in many homes and can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any room.

mantel relate terms

• mantle

  Etymology The word mantle derives from the Middle English term mantel which origina

• mantelpiece

  Etymology The word mantelpiece is derived from the French word manteau cloak whic

• mantel

  Etymology From Middle French mantel from Old French mantel from Late Latin mantellum

• piece

  Etymology Piece derives from the Old French word piece meaning fragment share por

• Mantua

  Etymology and Meaning The name Mantua derives from the ancient Etruscan word Mantus

• mental

  Etymology Mental Derived from the Latin word mens meaning mind or intellect

• hearth

• flesh

  Etymology of Flesh The word flesh comes from the Old English word flǣsc which is

• shelf

  Etymology The word shelf originates from the Middle English word schelf which in tu

• tree

  Etymology The word tree is derived from the following roots Proto Indo European PI

• pretty

  Etymology Old English prættig Middle English prettie Meaning Physically attra

• cocktail

  Etymology The word cocktail is believed to have originated from the French word coque