windowsill etymology

Etymology of "windowsill"

The word "windowsill" is a combination of two words:

• "window": From the Old Norse word "vindauga," which originally referred to a hole in a wall for letting in light and air.
• "sill": From the Old English word "syle," meaning a threshold or the base of a door or window.

Meaning and Origin of "windowsill"

A windowsill is the horizontal ledge or frame at the bottom of a window opening, which supports the window frame and prevents water from entering the building.

The term "windowsill" first appeared in the early 15th century, when windows began to be fitted with glass panes instead of wooden shutters. Prior to the use of glass, window openings typically had a lower threshold known as a "window stool" or "window seat." As glass windows became more common, the lower threshold evolved into a wider ledge that extended outside the window frame, providing a convenient place for objects to be placed and serving as a structural support for the window.

Throughout history, windowsills have served various practical and decorative purposes:

• Structural support: To strengthen the window frame and prevent it from warping or sagging.
• Waterproofing: To channel water away from the building and prevent it from entering through the window.
• Ventilation: Allows for some airflow when the window is partially open.
• Lighting: Reflects light into the room, enhancing illumination.
• Decoration: Can be made of various materials and styles, adding aesthetic value to the building's interior and exterior.
• Storage: Provides a ledge for storing small objects, such as plants, books, or other decorative items.
• Security: Can be used to hold burglar bars or other security measures.

windowsill relate terms

• sill

  Etymology The English word sill has two distinct etymologies 1 Threshold Architect

• window

  Etymology Old English windōge from Proto Germanic windaugaz derived from wi

• wind

  Etymology of Wind The English word wind originates from the Old English word wind

• grave

  Etymology The word grave has its roots in the Latin word gravis which means heavy

• denomination

  Etymology The term denomination originates from the Latin word denominare meaning t

• militia

  Etymology The word militia derives from the Latin noun miles meaning soldier whi

• seedy

  Etymology The word seedy comes from the Middle English word seed which itself deriv

• habit

  Etymology The word habit comes from the Old French word abit which is ultimately d

• bank

  Etymology The word bank has its origins in the Italian word banco which means benc

• dogma

  Etymology Greek dogma δόγμα meaning opinion belief decree Meaning A

• cringe

  Etymology of Cringe Cringe originates from the Middle English term cringen which f

• necromancy

  Etymology The term necromancy comes from the Greek words nekros νεκρός mean

• iron

  Etymology The word iron comes from the Old English word īren which is derived from