subway tile

[ suhb-wey tahyl ]

noun

1. a glazed ceramic tile, usually white and having a length twice its height, typically laid in a running bond pattern (often used attributively):

   The walls feature white subway tile with contrasting black grout, creating a striking modern look.

Word History and Origins

Origin of subway tile¹

First recorded in 1900–05

Example Sentences

For a wet-room shower in a house on Canfield Island, in Connecticut, the designers at New York-based interiors firm Jesse Parris-Lamb used subway tile but chose ceramics from Waterworks with a handmade appeal and subtle color variation.

From Seattle Times

She bought it last year for $1.6 million — a totally redone three-bedroom with subway tile backsplash, soaking tub and solar panels.

From Los Angeles Times

Steps from a charming entry where guests can store their shoes, coats and laptops, the main living area has a living room and full kitchen with simple white subway tile and custom mint green cabinets.

From Los Angeles Times

The bathroom in the ADU features simple subway tile.

From Los Angeles Times

What’s not gleaming white subway tile seems to be friendly green paint; half-curtains dress up the windows, and mirrors and copper molds hang on the walls.

From Washington Post