Meaning of "abatvoix" in English

"Abatvoix" is a term without direct translation in modern English but historically refers to the architectural feature known as a sounding board or sounding wall. It is a flat, horizontal surface located above pulpits or speaker platforms, primarily to project the speaker’s voice. The design serves both acoustic and aesthetic functions in places like churches or lecture halls. While the usage of this term is quite rare today, understanding it requires a context rooted deeply in historic architectural and acoustic practices.

Meaning of "abatvoix" in French

In French, "abatvoix" literally translates to 'sound deflector' and indicates an architectural element used to improve acoustics. It is typically a flat or curved panel placed above a lectern, pulpit, or stage to enhance sound distribution. This feature was commonly employed in churches and large public halls to ensure the speaker's voice reached the audience more effectively, minimizing the need for vocal strain and optimizing listening experience. The word combines two French terms, 'abattre' (to knock down) and 'voix' (voice), merging the ideas of intercepting and distributing sound.

Pronunciation of "abatvoix" in English

Phonetic Transcription: [əˈbætvwɑː].

Pronunciation Variations: Regional accents might slightly alter the enunciation, but variations are rare given the term's specialized use and unfamiliarity in the English language.

Pronunciation of "abatvoix" in French

Phonetic Transcription: [aba.vwa].

Pronunciation Variations: Standard across French-speaking regions, variations are minimal given the formal nature of the term, mostly influenced by subtle regional accents.

Sentence examples in English and translation to French

  1. The architect installed an abatvoix above the stage for better acoustics.
    (L'architecte a installé un abatvoix au-dessus de la scène pour de meilleures acoustiques.)

  2. In the old cathedral, the abatvoix was beautifully carved from oak.
    (Dans la vieille cathédrale, l'abatvoix était magnifiquement sculpté en chêne.)

  3. The abatvoix helped the preacher's voice carry throughout the church.
    (L'abatvoix a aidé la voix du prédicateur à se projeter dans toute l'église.)

  4. During renovations, the abatvoix was carefully restored to its original condition.
    (Lors des rénovations, l'abatvoix a été soigneusement restauré dans son état d'origine.)

  5. The scholar explained the purpose of the abatvoix in historical architecture.
    (Le savant a expliqué le but de l'abatvoix dans l'architecture historique.)

  6. The abatvoix design was crucial in the acoustics of old theaters.
    (La conception de l'abatvoix était cruciale pour l'acoustique des anciens théâtres.)

  7. Using an abatvoix is a clever way to enhance sound distribution.
    (Utiliser un abatvoix est une façon astucieuse d'améliorer la distribution du son.)

  8. The sound engineer appreciated the effect of the abatvoix.
    (L'ingénieur du son a apprécié l'effet de l'abatvoix.)

  9. Marie admired the craftsmanship of the abatvoix in the town hall.
    (Marie a admiré l'artisanat de l'abatvoix dans l'hôtel de ville.)

  10. The abatvoix was an essential feature in medieval church designs.
    (L'abatvoix était une caractéristique essentielle des conceptions d'églises médiévales.)

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "abatvoix" in English

Synonyms: soundboard, sounding board, acoustic panel, echo wall.

Antonyms: -

Similar Words: baffle, deflector, resonator, acoustic tile, sound reflector.

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "abatvoix" in French

Synonyms: panneau acoustique, résonateur, déflecteur sonore.

Antonyms: -

Similar Words: baffle, écran sonore, réverbérateur.

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