state-room

A passenger relaxes in her state-room on the ocean liner.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A private sleeping compartment on a ship or train: "state-room" refers to an individual cabin or compartment designed for sleeping, especially on a passenger ship or, in American usage, on a railway train.
   • A ceremonial or formal room: "state-room" also denotes a room used for official ceremonies, receptions, or formal gatherings, typically in a palace, mansion, or large public building.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The cruise liner offered luxurious state-rooms with sea views. (Private sleeping cabins on a ship.)
  • The ambassador was escorted to the state-room for the diplomatic reception. (A formal ceremonial room.)

Advanced Usage

• "to be shown to one's state-room": to be taken to one's private cabin on a ship.

  • After boarding, the steward showed the passengers to their state-rooms. (They were guided to their sleeping compartments.)

• "state-room on a train": a private sleeping compartment on a railway carriage, common in historical American rail travel.

  • He booked a state-room on the overnight express to Chicago. (A private cabin on a train.)

Variants and Related Words

• State (n): the condition or status of something; also, a political entity.

  • The room was decorated in a state of elegance. (A condition of being formal.)

• State apartment (n): a formal suite of rooms in a palace or grand house.

  • The state apartment was opened to the public for tours. (A set of ceremonial rooms.)

Synonyms

• Cabin: a small private room on a ship.

  • The cabin was modest but comfortable. (A sleeping compartment.)

• Compartment: a separate section or division, especially on a train.

  • She had a first-class compartment to herself. (A private space on a train.)

• Chamber: a large room used for formal or official purposes.

  • The king's chamber was used for state occasions. (A ceremonial room.)

Phrasal Verbs

• State out: (rare) to formally designate or set apart.
  • They stated out the largest room as the state-room for dignitaries. (They designated it for formal use.)

Related Idioms

• In state: in a formal, ceremonial manner.

  • The queen processed in state to the state-room. (She moved with great formality.)

• State of the art: the most advanced or sophisticated level.

  • The state-room featured state-of-the-art amenities. (The cabin had the latest modern comforts.)