Escritoires, pronounced /ɛskrɪˈtwɑrz/, is a French-origin word that refers to a small writing desk with drawers, compartments, and a hinged flap that can be closed to conceal a writing surface. The word's spelling reflects its roots in the French language, where suffixes are commonly added to noun bases to create new words with differing meanings or functions. Escritoires can be found in antique shops or used in contemporary home offices as a vintage-inspired functional piece.
Escritoires, noun, (singular: escritoire) refers to a type of piece of furniture that serves as a writing desk or a small cabinet used for storing writing materials and documents. The term "escritoire" is derived from the French word "escritoire," which in turn comes from the Latin word "scriptorium," meaning a writing place or a writing room.
Typically, an escritoire consists of a flat writing surface, often hinged to provide access to storage space within the desk. It may feature compartments or drawers for organizing and safely storing stationery, documents, or other writing-related items. Historically, escritoires were mainly used in domestic settings and were favored by individuals involved in literary or administrative work. Today, escritoires can still be found in homes, offices, or other environments where a compact yet functional writing area is needed.
These writing desks come in a range of styles and designs, varying from antique or vintage to more modern and contemporary. They can be made from various materials, such as wood, metal, or even glass, and may feature intricate carvings or decorative elements that add to their aesthetic appeal.
Overall, an escritoire is a multipurpose piece of furniture that combines the practicality of a writing surface with the functionality of storage compartments, making it an essential item for those who require a dedicated space for writing or organizing their written materials.
The word escritoires is derived from the French word escritoire, which itself comes from the Old French word escrietoire meaning writing desk or writing box. The term was used in medieval times to refer to a portable writing desk that contained compartments for storing writing materials such as quills, ink, and paper. The French word escritoire ultimately traces back to the Latin word scribere, meaning to write.