slat
|slat|
/slæt/
thin narrow strip (of wood/metal/plastic)
Etymology
'slat' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'slat'; its ultimate origin is uncertain but it may be related to Old Norse words meaning 'slice' or 'strip'.
'slat' appeared in Middle English as 'slat' meaning a thin strip and developed into the modern English word 'slat' with little change in form.
Initially it meant 'a thin strip or slice'; over time the core meaning has remained largely the same, applied to strips used in blinds, fences, beds, etc.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a thin, narrow, flat piece of wood, metal, or plastic, especially one of a series used to form a fence, blind, shutter, or similar structure.
She adjusted the slats on the blinds to let more light in.
Synonyms
Noun 2
a narrow strip of wood or metal used as a support, for example the slats that support a mattress or the seat of a chair.
The mattress rests on wooden slats.
Synonyms
Verb 1
to cover, line, or fasten with slats; to form into slats or fit with slats (often used in passive or participle forms, e.g., 'slatted').
They slatted the fence to create more privacy.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/11/06 15:05