chimney-piece

A family hangs stockings from the chimney-piece on Christmas Eve.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A decorative structure above a fireplace: "chimney-piece" refers to the ornamental framework or shelf that surrounds or sits above a fireplace, often including a mantelpiece. It is typically made of wood, stone, or marble and used for displaying objects.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • She placed a small clock on the chimney-piece. (She put a timepiece on the shelf above the fireplace.)
  • The old Victorian house had an elaborate marble chimney-piece. (The fireplace had a detailed, decorative marble frame.)

Advanced Usage

• "chimney-piece as a focal point": In interior design, the chimney-piece often serves as a central decorative element in a room.

  • The living room was arranged around the chimney-piece, with chairs facing the fireplace. (The furniture was positioned to highlight the fireplace structure.)

• "chimney-piece ornament": Small decorative items placed on the chimney-piece.

  • He collected antique vases to adorn the chimney-piece. (He gathered old vases to decorate the mantel shelf.)

Variants and Related Words

• Mantelpiece (n): a synonym for chimney-piece, specifically the shelf above a fireplace.

  • The mantelpiece was cluttered with photographs. (The shelf above the fireplace had many pictures.)

• Fireplace (n): the entire structure including the hearth and chimney.

  • The fireplace was brick, but the chimney-piece was carved from oak. (The fire area was brick, but the decorative shelf was oak.)

Synonyms

• Mantel: a shelf or frame over a fireplace.
• Fireplace surround: the decorative border around a fireplace opening.

Related Idioms

• "On the chimney-piece": used to indicate a location of prominence or display.

  • The award sat on the chimney-piece for all to see. (The prize was placed in a visible, honoured spot.)

• "Dust on the chimney-piece": a phrase suggesting neglect or lack of use.

  • No one had touched the room for years; dust lay thick on the chimney-piece. (The fireplace shelf was covered in dust from disuse.)