parquet

[ pahr-key ]

noun

1. a floor composed of short strips or blocks of wood forming a pattern, sometimes with inlays of other woods or other materials.
2. the part of the main floor of a theater, opera house, etc., that is between the musicians' area and the parterre or rear division or, especially in the U.S., the entire floor space for spectators.

verb (used with object)

, par·queted [pahr-, keyd], par·quet·ing [pahr-, key, -ing].

1. to construct (a floor) of parquetry.

parquet

/ ˈpɑːkeɪ; -kɪ /

noun

1. a floor covering of pieces of hardwood fitted in a decorative pattern; parquetry
2. Also calledparquet floor a floor so covered
3. the stalls of a theatre
4. the main part of the Paris Bourse, where officially listed securities are traded Compare coulisse
5. (in France) the department of government responsible for the prosecution of crimes

verb

1. to cover (a floor) with parquet

Word History and Origins

Origin of parquet¹

1670–80; < French, diminutive of parc park; -et

Word History and Origins

Origin of parquet¹

C19: from Old French: small enclosure, from parc enclosure; see park

Example Sentences

The water broke through the front door and spilled across the parquet floors.

From Washington Post

And before he had finished smiling, over the parquet floor behind him there came the light rustle of a dress.

From Project Gutenberg

He made a sweeping gesture, knocking over his liqueur glass; it fell with a crash on the parquet floor.

From Project Gutenberg

Zollern tapped his cane on the parquet floor, rhythmically, persistently.

From Project Gutenberg

There was no judge in the parquet who had his reputation for breaking down the resistance of obstinate prisoners.

From Project Gutenberg

Plated parquet consists of selected hard woods firmly fixed on a framed deal backing.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• carpet
• carpeting
• linoleum
• tile
• woodwork