French translation of
knocker
is
heurtoir
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Meaning of "knocker" in English
A "knocker" refers to a decorative item attached to a door that functions as a tool for signaling one's presence by creating sounds when struck against the door. Traditionally made of metal, knockers are both functional and aesthetically appealing, serving as a means to announce visitors while simultaneously enhancing the entrance's appearance. Beyond physical objects on doors, in informal settings, "knocker" can refer to an individual who persistently criticizes or finds fault. This dual usage highlights its practical utility as well as its metaphorical significance in everyday language.
Meaning of "heurtoir" in French
In French, "heurtoir" carries a similar meaning to its English counterpart. It is typically a metallic device fixed to a door used to make a loud sound for signaling one’s arrival. Historically prevalent in grand entrances, "heurtoirs" vary in design, reflecting different artistic styles and eras. While primarily utilitarian, they are often crafted to add an element of elegance or grandeur to the doorway. As in English, the term can also suggest the notion of someone persistently finding fault or placing blame metaphorically.
Pronunciation of "knocker" in English
Phonetic Transcription: /ˈnɒk.ər/
Pronunciation Variations: In American English, "knocker" is often pronounced with a slightly softer vowel sound as in /ˈnɑː.kər/, differing only slightly from British English, which emphasizes the 'o' sound more distinctly.
Pronunciation of "heurtoir" in French
Phonetic Transcription: /œʁ.twaʁ/
Pronunciation Variations: The pronunciation of "heurtoir" remains mostly consistent across French-speaking regions, though subtle variations might exist in regions with distinct accents, such as in certain areas of Belgium or Switzerland, where the 'r' might be softer or more rolled.
Sentence examples in English and translation to French
- She admired the intricate lion-shaped knocker on the old oak door. (Elle admirait le heurtoir en forme de lion sur la vieille porte en chêne.)
- The sound of the knocker echoed through the empty house. (Le son du heurtoir résonnait dans la maison vide.)
- He lifted the heavy iron knocker and knocked twice. (Il souleva le lourd heurtoir en fer et frappa deux fois.)
- Do you prefer a traditional doorbell or a classic knocker? (Préférez-vous une sonnette traditionnelle ou un heurtoir classique ?)
- The antique knocker was restored to its former glory. (Le heurtoir antique a été restauré à son ancienne gloire.)
- She hesitated for a moment before using the knocker. (Elle hésita un moment avant d'utiliser le heurtoir.)
- The knocker was cold to the touch on the winter morning. (Le heurtoir était froid au toucher ce matin d'hiver.)
- You could hear the knocker being used even from the garden. (On pouvait entendre le heurtoir même depuis le jardin.)
- The designer suggested a modern knocker to complement the new door. (Le designer a suggéré un heurtoir moderne pour compléter la nouvelle porte.)
- He installed a new knocker shaped like a horse’s head. (Il a installé un nouveau heurtoir en forme de tête de cheval.)
Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "knocker" in English
Synonyms: ringer, doorknocker, critiquer, gong, ding-dong, banger, chime.
Antonyms: -.
Similar Words: bell, latch, handle, alarm, doorbell, rap, tap, striker.
Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "heurtoir" in French
Synonyms: marteau de porte, cloche de porte, cliquette.
Antonyms: -.
Similar Words: poignée, serrure, sonnette.
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