Definition

Noun: 1. A shelf projecting from the wall above a fireplace: A mantelpiece is a decorative shelf or structure that is built above and around a fireplace opening. It is often used to display ornaments, clocks, or family photographs. 2. The structure surrounding a fireplace: In broader usage, it can refer to the entire decorative framework, including the shelf, that frames the fireplace opening.

Usage

The mantelpiece serves as both a functional shelf and a focal point for decoration in a room with a fireplace. - It is typically made of wood, stone, or marble. - The term is common in British English; in American English, "mantel" is often used synonymously.

Examples

• Noun:
  • She placed the antique clock on the mantelpiece.
  • The family's holiday cards were lined up along the marble mantelpiece.
  • They hung their stockings from the mantelpiece on Christmas Eve.

Advanced Usage

• "To be on the mantelpiece": To be displayed prominently, often implying a place of honor or regular visibility.
  • His award for bravery has a place on the mantelpiece.

Variants and Related Words

• Mantel (noun): A common synonym, especially in American English, for the shelf or structure above a fireplace.
  • The clock sat on the wooden mantel.
• Chimneypiece (noun): A chiefly British term synonymous with mantelpiece.
  • The Victorian chimneypiece was intricately carved.
• Fireplace surround (noun phrase): A more descriptive term for the decorative framework around a fireplace, which may include the mantelpiece.

Synonyms

• Mantel: The shelf or structure above a fireplace.
• Chimneypiece: A British term for a mantelpiece.
• Fireplace shelf: A descriptive term for the projecting shelf.

Idioms and Phrases

• "To gather around the mantelpiece": To come together in the cozy, central part of a room, often for conversation or warmth.
  • After dinner, everyone gathered around the mantelpiece to talk.

Noun

1. shelf that projects from wall above fireplace
   • in Britain they call a mantel a chimneypiece