Definition

1. Noun:
   • A three-legged stand or frame for supporting an artist's canvas, a blackboard, or another object for display or work: An easel is typically a vertical, adjustable structure that holds a surface steady while an artist paints or draws on it, or while a presenter displays information.

Usage

• An easel is used primarily by visual artists (painters, sketchers) to hold their working surface at a comfortable angle and height.
• It is also commonly used in classrooms, meetings, or presentations to hold a large pad of paper or a whiteboard.
• The word is typically used with verbs like "set up," "use," "adjust," or "stand at."

Examples

• Noun:
  • The painter set up her easel by the river to capture the sunset.
  • Please place the chart on the easel so everyone in the audience can see it.
  • His studio was cluttered with canvases leaning against several easels.

Advanced Usage

• "To be at the easel": To be actively engaged in painting or drawing.
  • She spends hours at the easel every day, perfecting her technique.

Variants and Related Words

• Display easel (n): A type of easel designed specifically for presenting posters or signs, often lighter and more portable.
• Studio easel (n): A sturdy, often large easel intended for use in an artist's permanent workspace.
• Field easel / Plein air easel (n): A lightweight, portable easel designed for artists to use outdoors.

Synonyms

• Stand: A general term for a support or frame. (e.g., )
• Tripod: A three-legged stand, often for cameras or scientific instruments, sharing the structural concept but not the specific function for holding a canvas.

Related Phrases

• Easel painting (n): A painting created on a canvas or panel supported by an easel, as opposed to a mural painted directly on a wall.
  • The museum's collection focuses on 19th-century French easel paintings.

Noun

1. an upright tripod for displaying something (usually an artist's canvas)