Dictionary
transom
noun tran·som \ˈtran(t)-səm\
: a small window that is above a door or larger window
: a stone or wooden bar that goes across the top of a door or window
Full Definition of TRANSOM
1
: a transverse piece in a structure : crosspiece: as a : lintel b : a horizontal crossbar in a window, over a door, or between a door and a window or fanlight above it c : the horizontal bar or member of a cross or gallows d : any of several transverse timbers or beams secured to the sternpost of a boat; also : the planking forming the stern of a square-ended boat
2
: a window above a door or other window built on and commonly hinged to a transom
— over the transom
: without solicitation or prior arrangement <the manuscript arrived over the transom>
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Illustration of TRANSOM
Origin of TRANSOM
Middle English transyn, traunsom, probably alteration of traversayn, from Middle French travessain, from Old French traversain set crosswise, from Vulgar Latin *traversanus, from Latin transversus transverse
First Known Use: 14th century
Rhymes with TRANSOM
TRANSOM Defined for Kids
transom
noun tran·som \ˈtran-səm\
Definition of TRANSOM for Kids
1
: a piece that lies crosswise in a structure (as in the frame of a window or of a door that has a window above it)
2
: a window above a door or another window
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