Definition

Noun: A rigid structure, typically made of wood, metal, or plastic, that surrounds and supports a picture, painting, or photograph. Its primary functions are to protect the artwork, enhance its visual presentation, and provide a means for hanging it on a wall.

Usage

The term "picture frame" refers specifically to the object that holds and borders a picture. It is a compound noun where "picture" describes the type of "frame." It is used as a countable noun.

Examples

• She chose a simple wooden picture frame for the family photograph.
• The ornate gold picture frame complemented the classical portrait perfectly.
• All the picture frames in the gallery were uniform and minimalist.

Advanced Usage

• "To frame a picture": This is the verbal phrase meaning to place a picture into a frame.
  • We need to frame this picture before we can hang it.
• The concept can be used metaphorically to describe something that provides a border or context.
  • The large window acted as a natural picture frame for the landscape outside.

Variants and Related Words

• Frame (noun): A more general term for a rigid structure that surrounds or supports something (e.g., window frame, door frame, eyeglass frame). "Picture frame" is a specific type of frame.
• Framing (noun): The process, technique, or materials used to frame something.
  • The framing of the artwork was done by a professional.
• Mat (or Mount) (noun): A decorative cardboard border often placed between the picture and the frame.
  • The photograph looked better with a white mat inside the picture frame.

Synonyms

• Border
• Surround
• Setting (when referring to how it presents the picture)

Related Phrases

• In the frame: An idiom meaning being considered for a role, position, or as a suspect.
  • He is in the frame for the promotion. (Note: This idiom is related to the general word "frame," not specifically "picture frame.")

Noun

1. a framework in which a picture is mounted