Gates & doorways

Delving Deep - Language

Exploring the language we use can be fascinating, beneficial and inspiring.

Gate

• Definition - a movable barrier, usually hinged, for closing an opening in a wall, fence, etc. An opening to allow passage into or out of an enclosed place.
• History - derived from old Norse gat meaning road or path, but other terms include yett and port. The concept originally referred to the gap or hole in a wall or fence, rather than the barrier which closed it.

Door

• Definition - a flat object that is used to close the entrance of something such as a room or building, or the entrance itself.
• History - the English word for “door” comes from the Old English duru or dor. Very similar words are found in the Scandinavian languages: dør in Danish and Norwegian, and dörr in Swedish. Similar words are also found in the Germanic languages: deur in Dutch and Tür in German.

Way

I thought it was also useful to include the word "way" as we often refer to them as a doorway or gateway. "Way" has two definitions which are both relevant:

• Definition - a method, style, or manner of doing something; an optional or alternative form of action.
• Definition - a road, track, or path for travelling along.

The gateway and doorway describe a specific manner by which you will be crossing the boundary, eg. stepping up a step, bending down to pass under a low beam, but they also create a distinctive path to travel along. Its likely this is the only way in or out.

(Liz)

Active Boundaries: Gates

in the Muddy Faces shop.

See also