doorpost: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1/C2Formal, Technical, Literary, Biblical
Quick answer
What does “doorpost” mean?
One of the two vertical sides of a door frame, especially the part on which the door hinges or latches are mounted.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
One of the two vertical sides of a door frame, especially the part on which the door hinges or latches are mounted.
A metaphorical reference to a boundary, entry point, or place of authority or judgment (especially in religious contexts, e.g., in the Book of Exodus).
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning or usage. Both dialects prefer 'doorframe' or 'door jamb' in everyday construction contexts.
Connotations
In both varieties, the word has an archaic or technical feel. The biblical connotation ('lintel and doorposts') is equally recognized.
Frequency
Very low frequency in contemporary speech in both regions. More likely found in historical texts, specific technical manuals, or religious contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “doorpost” in a Sentence
attach [sth] to the doorpostmark the doorpost with [sth]stand in the doorpostVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “doorpost” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- N/A
American English
- N/A
adverb
British English
- N/A
American English
- N/A
adjective
British English
- The doorpost hinge was loose.
- They checked the doorpost alignment.
American English
- The doorpost hinge was loose.
- They checked the doorpost alignment.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare. Potentially used in property development or architectural specifications.
Academic
Used in archaeology, architectural history, and theological studies.
Everyday
Very rare. 'Doorframe' is the common term.
Technical
Used in carpentry, joinery, and building construction documentation.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “doorpost”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “doorpost”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “doorpost”
- Confusing 'doorpost' with 'doorframe' (the entire structure). Using it as a synonym for 'doorstep' or 'threshold'. Pluralising incorrectly as 'doorpostes'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is quite rare in everyday modern English. 'Doorframe' or 'door jamb' are far more common.
A doorpost is a vertical side piece of a door frame. A lintel is the horizontal top piece that rests across the two doorposts.
Yes, primarily in religious or literary contexts to symbolise a boundary, a place of protection, or a site of judgment (e.g., 'the doorpost of one's heart').
For receptive (reading/listening) purposes, yes, especially for understanding historical or biblical texts. For productive (speaking/writing) use, 'doorframe' or 'door jamb' are more practical alternatives.
One of the two vertical sides of a door frame, especially the part on which the door hinges or latches are mounted.
Doorpost is usually formal, technical, literary, biblical in register.
Doorpost: in British English it is pronounced /ˈdɔː.pəʊst/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈdɔːr.poʊst/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “from lintel to doorpost”
- “as solid as a doorpost”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
A POST is a vertical support. A DOORPOST is the POST that supports your DOOR.
Conceptual Metaphor
A DOORPOST IS A BOUNDARY MARKER (e.g., marking the entry to a home or a sacred space).
Practice
Quiz
Which of the following is the most precise technical synonym for 'doorpost' in carpentry?