gambrel roof

noun

1. a gable roof, each side of which has a shallower slope above a steeper one. Compare mansard ( def 1 ).

gambrel roof

noun

1. a hipped roof having a small gable at both ends
2. a roof having two slopes on both sides, the lower slopes being steeper than the upper Compare mansard

Derived Forms

• ˈgambrel-ˌroofed, adjective

Other Words From

• gambrel-roofed adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of gambrel roof¹

An Americanism dating back to 1755–65

Example Sentences

Two large windows, one in each end of the gambrel roof, afforded light and air.

From Project Gutenberg

The gambrel roof appeared before the eighteenth century and was commonly used in New England farmhouses.

From Project Gutenberg

The next roof-form, built from early colonial days, and popular a century ago, was what was known as the gambrel roof.

From Project Gutenberg

The gambrel roof had a certain grace of outline, especially when joined with lean-tos and other additions.

From Project Gutenberg

It was quite an old frame-building, two stories high, with a gambrel roof and tall chimneys.

From Project Gutenberg