transom

[ tran-suhm ]

noun

1. a crosspiece separating a door or the like from a window or fanlight above it.
2. Also called transom light, a window above such a crosspiece.
3. a crossbar of wood or stone, dividing a window horizontally.
4. a window so divided.
5. Nautical.
   1. a flat termination to a stern, above the water line.
   2. framework running athwartships in way of the sternpost of a steel or iron vessel, used as a support for the frames of the counter.
6. Artillery. a metal piece connecting the sidepieces of the tail or the cheeks of a gun carriage.

transom

/ ˈtrænsəm /

noun

1. Also calledtraverse a horizontal member across a window Compare mullion
2. a horizontal member that separates a door from a window over it
3. the usual US name for fanlight
4. nautical
   1. a surface forming the stern of a vessel, either vertical or canted either forwards ( reverse transom ) or aft at the upper side
   2. any of several transverse beams used for strengthening the stern of a vessel

Derived Forms

• ˈtransomed, adjective

Other Words From

• transomed adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of transom¹

1325–75; late Middle English traunsum, traunsom, Middle English transyn, probably alteration (by association with trans- ) of traversayn < Old French traversin crosspiece, derivative of travers breadth; traverse

Word History and Origins

Origin of transom¹

C14: earlier traversayn , from Old French traversin , from traverse

Example Sentences

The donor note came over the transom like any other: A contributor was hoping that the minimum allowable gift could be lowered to $18 from $20.

From New York Times

There are transom windows above the doors, and you can hear other guests moving down the hallway as the floors creak and groan.

From Seattle Times

The lavra’s doors are off their hinges and transoms have buckled; the brick walls of the churchyard bear the cavities of artillery.

From Seattle Times

Or consider adding a transom window above a door, something both Plain English and Format Architecture Office like to do when the ceiling height allows for it.

From Washington Post

Western and Oiler raised the two anchors and Gary stood with one foot on the transom and hauled on the starter rope.

From New York Times