WORD OF THE DAY: Inglenook
[ING-ɡəl-nook]
Part of speech: Noun
Origin: Scottish, late 18th century
Definition: A space on either side of a large fireplace
Examples of Inglenook in a sentence
“The central feature of the living room was the inglenook.”
“Some historical homes have inglenook fireplaces tucked under a grand staircase.”
About Inglenook
This word originates from “ingle,” perhaps from the Scottish Gaelic “aingeal” meaning “light, fire,” Irish aingeal “live ember.” “Nook” is from Middle English and refers to a “corner or fragment.”
Did you Know?
Inglenooks originated as a partially enclosed hearth area that was part of a larger room. The hearth was used to cook food, and the alcove became a natural gathering place to seek warmth. American architects like Henry Hobson Richardson and Frank Lloyd Wright often incorporated inglenooks into their designs.
