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

see also:

over the transom

Illustration of transom

• T transom 2

Examples of transom in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

High transoms usher natural light from the windows into the bedrooms. — Kelly Ryan Kegans, Midwest Living, 16 Aug. 2026

The existing transom window floods the bitty corner with natural light. — Betsy Cribb Watson, Southern Living, 9 Aug. 2026

Adding transoms above doors can allow more light into an otherwise dark space. — Jennifer Fernandez, Architectural Digest, 30 July 2026

The silhouette is also a beautiful juxtaposition, with long flowing lines punctuated by the sharp, geometric architecture of the transom and sundeck roof. — Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 21 July 2026

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

Rhymes for transom

• handsome
• hansom

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