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Mantelpiece - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

A mantelpiece is a decorative shelf above a fireplace, often used to display ornaments or family photos. It can also refer to the surrounding framework of the fireplace.

mantelpiece

/ˈmæn.t̬əl.piːs/ /ˈmæn.təl.piːs/

Definition:

A shelf above a fireplace, often used for displaying ornaments or decorations.

Synonyms:

mantelshelf, fireplace shelf, overmantel

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

floor, hearth

Common Collocations:

wooden mantelpiece, marble mantelpiece, decorate the mantelpiece, above the mantelpiece, carved mantelpiece

Derivatives:

mantel, mantle

Usage Tips:

Use "mantelpiece" to refer specifically to the shelf above a fireplace, not the surrounding structure (which is the "mantel").

Common Phrases:

above the mantelpiece, dust the mantelpiece, decorate the mantelpiece

Etymology:

Derived from "mantle" (a cloak) and "piece," referring to a decorative structure resembling a draped cloth over a fireplace.

Examples:

  • 1. She placed a vase of flowers on the mantelpiece.
  • 2. The clock on the mantelpiece chimed loudly at midnight.
  • 3. He hung a painting above the old wooden mantelpiece.
  • 4. Dust collected on the ornaments atop the marble mantelpiece.

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