Definition

Noun: 1. A gabled extension built out from a sloping roof to accommodate a vertical window: A dormer window is a structural element of a building. It is a small, projecting structure with its own roof (typically gabled) that is built out from the main, sloping surface of a larger roof. Its primary purpose is to create space and allow for the installation of a vertical window in an attic or loft area. 2. The window itself in such a gabled extension: The term can also refer specifically to the vertical window unit installed within the dormer structure.

Usage Examples

• As a structural element:
  • They added a dormer window to the attic to bring in more light and create a usable room.
  • The old house had several charming dormer windows along its slate roof.
• Referring to the window unit:
  • She sat by the dormer window, reading a book and looking out over the garden.
  • The rain was drumming loudly against the glass of the dormer window.

Advanced Usage

• Architectural Styles: Dormer windows are common in various architectural styles, such as Colonial, Cape Cod, and Tudor houses. They are a key feature for making attic spaces habitable.
• Types of Dormers: While "dormer window" often implies a gabled roof, there are other types like shed dormers (with a single-plane roof) or hipped dormers (with a pyramidal roof). The specific term "dormer window" typically refers to the gabled style.

Variants and Related Words

• Dormer (noun): Often used as a shortened form of "dormer window."
  • The house has three dormers on the front.
• Dormer cheek: The side wall of a dormer structure.
• Lucarne: A less common, more architectural term for a dormer window, especially in Gothic architecture.

Synonyms

• Roof window: A more general term, though a roof window is typically flush with the roof slope, while a dormer projects from it.
• Attic window: A descriptive synonym, though not all attic windows are in dormers.

Related Phrases

• To install/put in a dormer: The action of adding this structure to a building.
  • They decided to put in a dormer to expand the upstairs bedroom.
• Dormer bungalow: A style of house where the upper floor is contained within the roof space and features dormer windows.

Noun

1. a gabled extension built out from a sloping roof to accommodate a vertical window
2. the window in a gabled extension built to accommodate a window