Definition

1. Proper noun:
   • Eero Saarinen: A prominent 20th-century architect born in Finland who became a naturalized American citizen. He is known for his innovative, sculptural, and often futuristic designs in a variety of styles.
   • Eliel Saarinen: A Finnish-American architect, city planner, and educator. He was a leading figure in the National Romantic style in Finland and later in Art Deco and other styles in the United States. He is the father of Eero Saarinen.

Usage Examples

• Proper noun (Eero):
  • The TWA Flight Center at JFK Airport is a famous design by Saarinen.
  • Saarinen's Gateway Arch in St. Louis is an iconic monument.
• Proper noun (Eliel):
  • The Cranbrook Educational Community in Michigan was master-planned by Saarinen.
  • Saarinen's design for the Helsinki Railway Station is a landmark of Finnish architecture.

Advanced Usage

• The term Saarinen is often used attributively to describe the characteristic style associated with either architect.
  • The building features a Saarinen-esque parabolic arch.
  • This chair is a classic Saarinen design.

Variants and Related Words

• Saarinen, Eero: Full name used for specific reference to the son.
• Saarinen, Eliel: Full name used for specific reference to the father.
• Saarinen style: Refers to the architectural or design aesthetic associated with their work.

Different Meanings / Contexts

• In an architectural or design context, Saarinen almost exclusively refers to either Eero or Eliel Saarinen.
• As a Finnish surname, it may refer to other individuals, but in common English usage (especially related to art and design), it is strongly associated with these two architects.

Synonyms

• Architect (when the context is clear, though this is a general term).
• Designer (particularly for Eero Saarinen's furniture designs).

Related Idioms or Phrases

• A Saarinen original: Refers to an authentic piece of architecture or furniture designed by Eero or Eliel Saarinen.
  • The tulip table in the lobby is a Saarinen original.

Noun

1. United States architect (born in Finland) (1910-1961)
2. Finnish architect and city planner who moved to the United States in 1923; father of Eero Saarinen (1873-1950)