What does lintel mean?
A lintel is a horizontal beam that spans the top of a doorway, window, or similar opening. In buildings, it supports the masonry above the opening and may also be decorated as part of the architecture. Lintels are traditionally made from stone, timber, or metal, while reinforced concrete and other engineered materials are also used in modern construction. The word is mainly found in architectural and historical descriptions, including phrases such as "stone lintel," "carved lintel," and "door lintel." Figuratively, the term can describe an upper limit, boundary, or defining feature associated with an entry or transition. Its unusual spelling and long history reflect its transmission through French from the Latin word limen, meaning "threshold." The lintel is therefore both a practical structural component and a recognizable feature of traditional architecture.
nounA horizontal beam or lintel of stone, wood, or other structural material placed across the top of a doorway or window. It may support the wall above the opening or serve as a decorative architectural element.
- A horizontal structural beam across the top of a doorway, window, or other opening.
"The original oak lintel above the doorway is still visible."
"The builders replaced the cracked lintel with a reinforced concrete beam."
"A carved stone lintel frames the entrance to the historic church."
The plural is formed by adding -s to the noun.
"Several carved lintels decorate the cloister."
A lintel is the architectural bridge between the opening below and the wall above: without it, many doorways would be much harder to support.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does lintel come from?
The English word lintel comes through French linteau from Latin limen, meaning "threshold." In medieval English it referred to a horizontal beam or piece of masonry placed over a doorway. The word is related to other English forms deriving from the same Latin root, including liminal and eliminate, although their modern meanings have developed in different ways.
Related word forms
How lintel is actually used
The term is primarily architectural and is also used figuratively in phrases such as "a lintel above the doorway," where it refers to a threshold or defining boundary. It is used in both British and American English.
Easily confused with lintel
A lintel spans a doorway or window, whereas a mantel is the shelf or decorative structure above a fireplace.
A lintel is the horizontal member at the top of an opening, while a threshold is the strip or sill at the bottom.