gambrel

[ gam-bruhl ]

noun

1. the hock of an animal, especially of a horse.
2. Also called gambrel stick. a wood or metal device for suspending a slaughtered animal.

gambrel

/ ˈɡæmbrəl /

noun

1. the hock of a horse or similar animal
2. a frame of wood or metal shaped like a horse's hind leg, used by butchers for suspending carcasses of meat
3. short for gambrel roof

Word History and Origins

Origin of gambrel¹

1540–50; < Old North French gamberel, akin to French jambier legging, jambe leg

Word History and Origins

Origin of gambrel¹

C16: from Old Northern French gamberel, from gambe leg

Example Sentences

Great room, dining room, screened porches, Dutch barn gambrel roof, detached garage with guest apartment.

From Washington Times

The owner of a longtime Summerland antiques barn had died, and the "historically delightful" 1921 structure — complete with gambrel roof and grounds with potential — was available.

From Los Angeles Times

Its interior has three and a half levels and a central silo, with four gambrel dormers spaced evenly around the edge and a cupola at the top.

From Washington Times

On Shelter Island, he reads, gardens and kayaks between his Dutch gambrel cottage...

From Wall Street Journal

River view, sitting porch with four Ionic columns, gambrel roof, two chimneys.

From Washington Times

Related Words

• ceiling
• house