doorframe: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B1neutral
Quick answer
What does “doorframe” mean?
The fixed structure forming the border of a doorway, into which a door is fitted.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The fixed structure forming the border of a doorway, into which a door is fitted.
The rigid, supportive architectural element that surrounds and defines a doorway, often providing structural integrity to the wall.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant lexical difference. The term is standard in both varieties. 'Door casing' is a more specific carpentry term used in both, but 'doorframe' is the common general term.
Connotations
Neutral, architectural/constructional term.
Frequency
Slightly more common in written descriptions (DIY, architectural) than in casual speech, where 'doorway' or just 'frame' might be used. Frequency is comparable in both varieties.
Grammar
How to Use “doorframe” in a Sentence
[verb] + the + doorframe (e.g., paint, measure, reinforce)the doorframe + [verb] + (e.g., surrounds, supports, cracks)[adjective] + doorframe (e.g., wooden, sturdy, cracked)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “doorframe” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The doorframe measurements are critical for the new door.
- We noticed some doorframe damage after the attempted break-in.
American English
- The doorframe alignment was off by half an inch.
- Check for doorframe irregularities before ordering.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare, except in property development or construction contracting.
Academic
Used in architectural history, engineering, or building physics texts.
Everyday
Common in home improvement, moving house, or describing damage (e.g., 'I bumped my shoulder on the doorframe').
Technical
Precise term in carpentry, joinery, and building regulations.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “doorframe”
- Using 'doorframe' to mean the open space you walk through (that's a 'doorway').
- Confusing 'doorframe' (the structure) with 'architrave' or 'trim' (the decorative moulding attached to it).
- Misspelling as two words: 'door frame' (also accepted, but 'doorframe' is the solid compound).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. A 'doorjamb' typically refers specifically to the two vertical sides of the frame. A 'doorframe' is the complete rectangular unit, including the head (top horizontal part) and often the sill (bottom part in exterior doors).
Yes, 'door frame' (open compound) is also common and generally accepted. 'Doorframe' (solid compound) is the form given in many dictionaries and is equally correct. Usage varies.
It is a standard word understood by most native speakers, but its precise use is more frequent in contexts like DIY, construction, or detailed description. In everyday conversation, people might just say 'frame' or 'doorway' depending on context.
There isn't a direct, single-word antonym. Conceptually, the opposite would be a 'solid wall' (no opening) or simply the 'opening' or 'doorway' itself (the void rather than the structure defining it).
The fixed structure forming the border of a doorway, into which a door is fitted.
Doorframe is usually neutral in register.
Doorframe: in British English it is pronounced /ˈdɔːfreɪm/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈdɔːrfreɪm/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Out the doorframe (humorous, non-standard play on 'out the door' for something leaving quickly).”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a PICTURE FRAME, but for a DOOR. A DOORFRAME holds the door in place just like a picture frame holds a picture.
Conceptual Metaphor
A BORDER or BOUNDARY (the doorframe marks the transition between spaces). A SUPPORT STRUCTURE (it holds the wall together around the opening).
Practice
Quiz
Which part of a house does a 'doorframe' specifically refer to?