Definition

1. Noun:
   • An extension at the end and at right angles to the main building: A wing or annex of a building that projects perpendicularly from the main structure, often forming an L-shaped floor plan.

Usage

• The word "ell" is a specific architectural term. It is used to describe a part of a building's physical structure. It is a countable noun (e.g., , ).
• It is often used in historical or descriptive contexts about buildings, farms, and house plans.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The old farmhouse had a kitchen in the rear ell.
  • They added an ell to the original cabin to create more bedroom space.
  • The architect's design featured a main block with a smaller ell extending to the north.

Advanced Usage

• "In the ell of the house": Referring to the space or rooms located within this projecting wing.
  • Her study was tucked away in the quiet ell of the house.

Variants and Related Words

• El (n): A less common variant spelling of "ell" with the same meaning.
• Wing (n): A more general term for a part of a building projecting from the main part. (Note: A "wing" is not necessarily at a right angle, while an "ell" specifically is).
• Annex (n): A building joined to or associated with a main building. (Note: An "annex" can be a separate structure, while an "ell" is an integrated extension).
• Extension (n): A part that is added to something to enlarge or prolong it. This is a very general synonym.

Synonyms

• Perpendicular wing: A descriptive synonym emphasizing the right-angle construction.
• L-shaped extension: A descriptive synonym focusing on the resulting shape.

Notes on Different Meanings

• Historical Unit of Length: In a historical context, "ell" can also refer to an obsolete unit of measurement for cloth, typically equal to about 45 inches (114 cm). This meaning is now archaic and primarily found in historical texts.
  • Example: He bought three ells of linen fabric.
• The Letter L: Informally, "ell" can refer to the letter 'L', especially regarding its shape.
  • Example: The road makes a sharp ell turn to the left.

Noun

1. an extension at the end and at right angles to the main building