transom

noun

tran·​som ˈtran(t)-səm 

1

: a transverse piece in a structure : crosspiece: such as

a

: lintel

b

: a horizontal crossbar in a window, over a door, or between a door and a window or fanlight above it

c

: the horizontal bar or member of a cross or gallows

d

: any of several transverse timbers or beams secured to the sternpost of a boat

also : the planking forming the stern of a square-ended boat

2

or transom window : a window above a door or other window built on and commonly hinged to a transom

Illustration of transom

• T transom 2

Phrases

over the transom

: without solicitation or prior arrangement

the manuscript arrived over the transom

Examples of transom in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

It can be closed off from the rest of the house using a set of beautiful French doors that have a row of transom windows just above. —James Alexander, Hartford Courant, 14 July 2024

Perfect for hosting large dinner parties or memorable family get-togethers, the stylish dining room features a tray ceiling and transom windows above multiple entry points. —Karen A. Avitabile, Hartford Courant, 25 Feb. 2024

The parlor leads to the living room, library and dining room, which all have raised and fielded paneling and details like pocket doors, leaded glass transoms and oak flooring. —Kimberlee Speakman, Peoplemag, 30 May 2024

The rooms feature original doors, transom windows, and classic prewar bathrooms with grand marble vanities. —Carrie Honaker, Travel + Leisure, 29 May 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English transyn, traunsom, probably alteration of traversayn, from Middle French travessain, from Old French traversain set crosswise, from Vulgar Latin *traversanus, from Latin transversus transverse

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing transom

• over the transom
• transom window

Kids Definition

transom

noun

tran·​som ˈtran(t)-səm 

1

: a horizontal crossbar in a window, over a door, or between a door and a window or fanlight above it

2

: a window above a door or other window built on and commonly hinged to a transom