The term "revolving doors" is spelled using the IPA transcription /rɪˈvɒlvɪŋ dɔːz/. The "r" sound in "revolving" is pronounced with the tip of the tongue at the roof of the mouth, while the "ɪ" sound is a short "ih" sound. The "v" sound is pronounced with the upper teeth touching the lower lip. The long "o" sound in "doors" is pronounced with the mouth slightly open and rounded. The "z" sound is pronounced with the tongue against the upper teeth.
Revolving doors are a type of entryway or door system that rotates on a central axis, designed to allow people to enter and exit a building simultaneously while minimizing the loss of air conditioning or heat from the building, and maintaining a barrier against noise, dust, and outdoor elements. They are typically found in large office buildings, hotels, shopping malls, airports, or other public spaces with high pedestrian traffic.
The door itself consists of multiple wings or panels that are built within a circular framework. It is often constructed with glass or other transparent materials, providing visibility and enhancing the architectural aesthetics of the building. In operation, the wings of the revolving door are divided into separate compartments or pockets, allowing individuals to enter or exit one side at a time. Once inside, the user can push the door forward, causing it to rotate alongside the central axis.
Revolving doors offer several advantages compared to conventional swinging doors. By eliminating the need to fully open and close a door with every entry or exit, they help to regulate indoor climate control and reduce energy consumption. Additionally, revolving doors provide improved security by limiting the number of people who can enter or exit simultaneously, preventing unauthorized access, and providing a controlled flow of individuals. The design also minimizes the potential for collisions or accidents, as the rotating movement usually slows down automatically if more force is applied to avoid trapping or crushing individuals. Overall, revolving doors efficiently manage pedestrian traffic, maintain temperature levels, and enhance the architectural and functional aspects of a building.
The etymology of the word "revolving doors" can be traced back to the root words "revolve" and "door".
- "Revolving" comes from the Latin word "revolvere", which means "to roll back". It is derived from the prefix "re-" (meaning "back" or "again") and the verb "volvere" (meaning "to roll" or "to turn").
- "Door" is derived from the Old English word "duru" or "dura", which ultimately descends from the Proto-Germanic word "durz" (meaning "door" or "gate").
When combined, these root words form "revolving doors", referring to a type of door that rotates around a central axis or spindle, allowing a person to pass through without the need to push or pull.