abat-vent

noun

ˌäˌbäˈväⁿ,
F ȧbȧväⁿ
plural abat-vents
-äⁿz,
F -äⁿ
1
: a series of sloping boards used (as in a belfry light) to break the wind without obstructing the passage of air or sound
2
: a sloping roof (as of a penthouse)
3
: a metal chimney cap

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from French, literally, "(it) strikes down (abat) the wind (vent)," from abattre "to strike down" + vent "wind," going back to Old French, going back to Latin ventus

First Known Use

1860, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of abat-vent was in 1860

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Dictionary Entries Near abat-vent

Cite this Entry

“Abat-vent.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/abat-vent. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.

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