fenestra
[fɛˈnɛs.tra]feminine
The Latin word for window is fenestra.
The term refers to an opening designed for light and air.
Meaning: opening for light and air (noun)
Which one should you use?
While fenestra is the general term, Cancelli specifically describes a window characterized by bars or a latticed design.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In certain regions during the Roman Empire, the term vitrum was used specifically to describe glass windows.
How does it change in a sentence?
fenestra is a first-declension feminine noun. Use the nominative plural form fenestrae when multiple windows are the subject of a sentence. When the window is the direct object of a verb, use the accusative singular form fenestram.
Did you know?
- The English word 'defenestration' comes from fenestra and literally means the act of throwing someone out of a window.
- In medical Latin, the term fenestra is still used to describe small openings or gaps in the anatomy of the human ear.
- The word fenestra eventually gave rise to the French word 'fenêtre', but English chose to use 'window', which comes from Old Norse 'vindauga' meaning 'wind-eye'.
Examples in context
- Haec fenestra lignea est.This window is wooden.This sentence is useful for describing the material of a fenestra.Tatoeba #7107881 by alexmarcelo, translation #7998208 by dmaddock
- Est fenestra supra lectum.There is a window above the bed.This sentence is useful for describing the location of a fenestra.Tatoeba #10735014 by carlosalberto, translation #10734987 by carlosalberto
- Foras per fenestram aspexi.I looked outside through the window.This sentence is useful for showing how to use the form fenestram after a preposition.Tatoeba #6767239 by CarpeLanam, translation #3651706 by furoraceltica
- Fenestra est pulchra.The window is beautiful.
- 62 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Aurelia and Quintus are in a room with the window open.
- AureliaClaude, quaeso, hanc fenestram.Please close this window.
- QuintusCur fenestram claudere vis?Why do you want to close the window?
- AureliaFrigidus ventus per fenestram venit.A cold wind is coming through the window.
- QuintusBene, ego fenestram claudo.Fine, I am closing the window.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “window” translations and entries fenestra, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
