The word "Chimneys" is spelled as /ˈtʃɪmniz/. The sound "ch" is pronounced as /tʃ/ which is made by placing the tongue on the roof of the mouth and exhaling air, creating a soft "t" sound followed by a "sh" sound. The letter "i" in "chimneys" is pronounced as /ɪ/ which is a short, relaxed vowel sound. The letter "y" in "chimneys" sounds like /i/ which is a long, high pitched vowel sound. The plural form of "chimney" is spelled with an "s" at the end, creating the word "chimneys."
Chimneys are vertical structures built at the top of buildings, designed to expel smoke, gases, and other byproducts produced from the combustion of fuel within a building's fireplace or heating system. They are typically constructed using brick, stone, or metal, and are an integral part of traditional architectural designs.
Functionally, chimneys serve as a conduit for smoke to escape from the building, allowing for the safe removal of potentially harmful pollutants and maintaining indoor air quality. By creating a draft, chimneys "pull" the smoke upwards and out into the atmosphere, preventing it from lingering within the living spaces. Chimneys also facilitate the release of excess heat generated during the combustion process, preventing it from accumulating inside and potentially causing damage to the building.
In addition to their functional purpose, chimneys often contribute to the aesthetic appeal of a building. Their design, height, and shape can emphasize the architectural style of structures, playing a crucial role in the overall visual appearance. Chimneys are often accompanied by chimney pots or caps, which are placed on top to prevent rainwater, animals, or debris from entering the chimney shaft.
Overall, chimneys provide an important safety element to buildings that utilize fireplaces or heating systems, effectively channeling smoke and gases outside, while adding character and charm to architectural designs.
A funnel or passage upwards in a wall for the escape of smoke or heated air; chimney-flue or vent, the passage from the fireplace upwards for the escape of the smoke or heated air; chimney-sweep, one who cleans chimneys; chimney-piece, an ornamental frame of wood or stone round a fireplace.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "chimney" can be traced back to the Old English word "cimenege" or "cimene" which referred to a fireplace or a hearth. This was derived from the Latin word "camīnus" which also meant a furnace or a fireplace. The word further evolved in Middle English to "chimney" with a similar meaning. Over time, the word specifically came to refer to the vertical structure above a fireplace or stove that carries away smoke and exhaust gases, as it is commonly understood today.