How Do You Spell TRANSOM?

Pronunciation: [tɹˈansəm] (IPA)

Transom is a spelling challenge for its unfamiliarity in usage but also in its pronunciation. The word is pronounced as /ˈtrænsəm/ with the primary stress on the first syllable, and a schwa sound in the second syllable. It is derived from the Old French word traverser, meaning 'to cross'. Transom is used to describe the horizontal bar that separates the top of a door or window from its lower part. So, next time you come across the word transom, don't let its spelling and pronunciation intimidate you!

TRANSOM Meaning and Definition

  1. Transom (noun) refers to a horizontal beam or crosspiece that separates a door or window frame into two parts, commonly found in the upper part of a window or door. This structural element is typically made of wood or metal and is situated at a right angle to the vertical members of the frame. It serves to strengthen and support the window or door, particularly when it is made of glass.

    Additionally, in the context of boating or maritime terms, transom refers to the flat, vertical surface located at the stern of a vessel. This area is often where the boat's name, registration number, or other identifying marks are displayed. It may also provide an opening for access to the boat from the rear.

    Furthermore, "transom" can have a metaphorical meaning related to architecture or design. It describes a horizontal, decorative or structural element above a door, window, or other opening. This feature can be visually appealing and add aesthetic value to a building's façade.

    Overall, transom refers to both a structural component within windows and doors, as well as the back surface of a boat's stern. It can also denote a decorative feature in architecture.

Top Common Misspellings for TRANSOM *

* 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.

Other Common Misspellings for TRANSOM

Etymology of TRANSOM

The word "transom" has its origins in Old French and Middle English. It comes from the Old French word "traversein", which was derived from the Latin word "transversus", meaning "to go across" or "to cross". In Middle English, it evolved into "travis" or "travice", which referred to a crossbeam or a window above a door. Over time, the word morphed into "transom" and specifically started to denote the horizontal beam or bar that separates a window or door from a lintel, or the small window above a door.

Idioms with the word TRANSOM

  • over the transom The idiom "over the transom" typically refers to something that is received or submitted without prior solicitation or formal request. It originated as a term in the publishing industry, where unsolicited manuscripts were sometimes submitted by throwing them over the transom (i.e., the horizontal bar above a door). In a broader sense, the idiom can be used to describe any unsolicited communication or unexpected opportunity that comes without anticipation or invitation.
  • come (in) over the transom The idiom "come (in) over the transom" typically refers to something unexpected or unsolicited that comes or arrives without prior notice or invitation. The phrase originated from the practice in the past of submissions being sent to publishers or literary agents by writers through the small window (transom) above a closed door. When a submission was received even without prior arrangement, it was said to have "come over the transom." In a broader sense, the idiom can also encompass any unexpected or unsought occurrence.

Similar spelling words for TRANSOM

Plural form of TRANSOM is TRANSOMS

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