GARRETTS Meaning and
Definition
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Garretts is a plural noun that refers to a distinct type of living space or an attic room typically found in older buildings, particularly in Europe. The term is derived from the Old French garite, meaning a small room or turret.
Garretts are usually situated on the uppermost level of a house or building, directly beneath the roof. They are often characterized by their small size, sloping ceilings, and limited headroom due to the pitched roof structure. Owing to their location, garretts can have unconventional layouts with irregularly shaped walls. As a result, they are generally used as storage areas or small living spaces, particularly in older times when space was limited.
Historically, garretts were associated with impoverished artists, writers, or struggling individuals who sought affordable accommodation in urban areas. Such garrets served as living and working spaces, providing a secluded environment for creativity, thoughts, or personal contemplation.
In modern times, the term garretts is sometimes used more broadly to describe any small and cramped living space, attic rooms, or even top-floor apartments. The connotation may extend to areas with limited headspace or unusual architectural features due to their location directly under the roof.
Etymology of GARRETTS
The word "garret" is derived from the Old French word "garite", meaning "watchtower" or "sentry box". It was originally used to refer to a small, usually cramped, attic or loft space found at the top of a house or building.
The plural form "garretts" is simply the pluralization of "garrett". It was likely influenced by similar plural forms in English, such as "cottages" or "bonnets". However, it is important to note that the plural "garretts" is not as commonly used as the singular "garrett" in contemporary English.
