The word "parlour" originates from the Old French word "parloir," which in turn comes from the Latin word "parlatorium."
Meaning
Original meaning: A room in a monastery or convent where monks or nuns could speak with visitors.
Current meaning: A room in a private house, typically used for receiving guests or as a sitting room.
Origin and Evolution
The Latin word "parlatorium" was derived from the verb "parlare," meaning "to speak." It referred to a specific room in a monastery or convent where monks and nuns were allowed to converse with visitors, usually family members or benefactors.
Over time, the word "parloir" entered the English language in the 13th century, still retaining its religious connotation.
In the 16th century, the meaning of "parloir" began to expand beyond religious contexts, gradually becoming associated with rooms in private homes that were used for socializing and entertaining.
By the 18th century, "parlour" had become a common term for a formal receiving room in a dwelling, often furnished with elegant furniture and decorations.
In the 19th and 20th centuries, the use of the word "parlour" declined somewhat, with other terms such as "living room" and "sitting room" becoming more popular. However, it remains in use today to describe a specific type of room in a house or apartment.
