Pronunciation: [dˈɔːstɒpə] (IPA) 
The word "doorstopper" is spelled with the letter combination "o-o" but has a different sound than the word "book." In IPA phonetic transcription, the pronunciation of "doorstopper" is /ˈdɔːrˌstɒpə/, with the first "o" making a long "o" sound while the second "o" makes a short "u" sound. This unique spelling highlights the specific function of the object, as it is a device used to hold doors open or closed.
A doorstopper is an object or device used to prevent a door from closing or opening fully, typically by placing it underneath the door. It is designed to keep the door in a desired position, preventing it from swinging shut or open due to draft, wind, or accidental force. Doorstoppers are commonly made of durable materials such as rubber, metal, wood, or plastic.
These devices come in various shapes and sizes, with the most common being wedge-shaped or cylindrical. Wedge doorstoppers are typically placed at the base of the door, creating a wedge-like obstruction that prevents the door from closing. Cylindrical doorstoppers, on the other hand, are placed adjacent to the door, preventing it from swinging open.
Doorstoppers serve a practical purpose in many environments, including homes, offices, hotels, and public buildings. They ensure that doors remain open when necessary, facilitating the flow of air, light, or foot traffic. Moreover, doorstoppers can prevent doors from slamming shut forcefully, minimizing the risk of accidents or injuries. Additionally, they are commonly used when moving heavy objects in and out of a space, ensuring that doors remain open during the process.
In a figurative sense, a "doorstopper" can also refer to a book or literary work that is excessively long or thick. Such books are often characterized by their extensive content, intricate plotlines, and numerous pages, necessitating the reader to invest a significant amount of time and effort to complete them.
The word "doorstopper" comes from the combination of two words: "door" and "stopper".
The term "door" can be traced back to the Old English word "dur", which is derived from Proto-Germanic "dura". It has Indo-European roots, with cognates in several languages. The word has been used to refer to an entrance or a movable barrier that allows access to a building or room since ancient times.
The word "stopper" originated from the Middle English word "stoppen", which is derived from Old English "stoppian". It has various meanings related to blocking, obstructing, or closing an opening.
When combined, "doorstopper" refers to an object or device used to stop or hold a door in place. This term is often used to describe thick or heavy books, which metaphorically "stop" a door from closing due to their size and weight.
