lintel: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Technical / Architectural
Quick answer
What does “lintel” mean?
A horizontal structural beam or stone placed across the top of a door or window opening to support the wall above it.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A horizontal structural beam or stone placed across the top of a door or window opening to support the wall above it.
In architecture and construction, the lintel is a load-bearing element that spans an opening. In computing, 'lintel' is sometimes used humorously or as a brand name (e.g., Lintel for Linux + Intel), but this is not standard.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning or usage. Spelling is identical.
Connotations
Neutral technical term in both varieties.
Frequency
Equally low-frequency and specialized in both UK and US English.
Grammar
How to Use “lintel” in a Sentence
The [material] lintel [verb, e.g., supports, cracked]A lintel [verb, e.g., spans, is] above the [opening]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “lintel” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The builder will lintel the new opening with a steel beam.
American English
- We need to lintel that doorway before framing the wall.
adjective
British English
- The lintel support bracket failed.
American English
- Check the lintel specification on the blueprint.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare, except in specific contexts like construction contracting or architectural services.
Academic
Used in archaeology, architectural history, and civil engineering texts.
Everyday
Very rare. Most non-specialists would simply say 'beam above the door/window'.
Technical
Standard, precise term in architecture, construction, and structural engineering.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “lintel”
Strong
Weak
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “lintel”
- Misspelling as 'lintle' or 'lintal'.
- Confusing it with 'sill' (the bottom part of a window).
- Using it as a general term for any beam.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is a low-frequency, specialized term used primarily in architecture, construction, and related fields.
Yes, though rare. In technical contexts, 'to lintel' means to fit or provide with a lintel.
A lintel is a straight, horizontal beam. An arch is a curved structure that spans an opening and distributes weight differently.
Minimal. The main difference is the flapping of the /t/ in American English (/ˈlɪn.t̬əl/ vs. British /ˈlɪn.təl/).
A horizontal structural beam or stone placed across the top of a door or window opening to support the wall above it.
Lintel is usually technical / architectural in register.
Lintel: in British English it is pronounced /ˈlɪn.təl/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈlɪn.t̬əl/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a LINE above a door that TELls you where the wall is supported: LINe-TELl -> LINTEL.
Conceptual Metaphor
A lintel is a BRIDGE over an opening; it CONNECTS two sides and BEARS A BURDEN (the weight above).
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary function of a lintel?