Definition

1. Noun:
   • A vertical piece forming the side of a door frame: A doorjamb is one of the two upright posts or sides of a doorway, against which the door closes and into which the hinges are often set. It is a structural component of a door frame.

Usage

• The doorjamb provides structural support for the door and is part of the complete door frame assembly, which also includes the head (top horizontal piece) and the sill or threshold (bottom piece).
• It is the surface against which the door's latch or deadbolt engages when the door is closed, making it crucial for security and proper door operation.

Examples

• Noun:
  • He installed a new strike plate into the doorjamb to secure the deadbolt.
  • The paint on the doorjamb was chipped and needed to be touched up.
  • When hanging a door, it's important to ensure the hinges are properly screwed into the doorjamb.

Advanced Usage

• "Check the doorjamb": A common instruction in contexts like home security, construction, or maintenance, meaning to inspect the condition or alignment of the door frame's side posts.
  • If the door is sticking, first check the doorjamb for warping.

Variants and Related Words

• Door frame (n): The entire structure surrounding a door, consisting of the head, two jambs, and often a sill.
• Jamb (n): The general term for the vertical side post of any opening, such as a door or window. "Doorjamb" is a specific type of jamb.
• Casing (n): The decorative trim or molding that covers the gap between the doorjamb/door frame and the wall.

Synonyms

• Doorpost: A less common but synonymous term for doorjamb.
• Side jamb: A descriptive term specifying which part of the frame is being referenced.

Related Phrases

• To be out the door: An idiom meaning to leave quickly or to have been completed and sent out. (Note: This idiom uses "door" as the core word, not "doorjamb").
• To get a foot in the door: An idiom meaning to gain an initial opportunity. (Note: This idiom uses "door" as the core word, not "doorjamb").

Noun

1. a jamb for a door