Meaning of the Word
An “aisle” refers to a passage or corridor, typically between rows of seats or shelves, in places such as a church, theater, airplane, or store.
Definitions and Meaning in English
- A passage between rows of seats in a theater, church, or other public place.
- A walkway between shelves in a store or supermarket.
- A passage or corridor in a vehicle, such as an airplane or train.
- A narrow space between rows of items or people, used for movement or access.
History and Origin
The word “aisle” comes from the Old French word aisle (meaning “wing” or “side”), derived from the Latin ala, meaning “wing.” Originally, it referred to the wings of a building, particularly the side sections of a church, and later expanded to describe any passage between rows. The word entered English during the Middle Ages and evolved in its use to include a variety of similar passageways in modern contexts.
Detailed Explanation
An aisle is a passage or walkway, typically found in public places like theaters, churches, stores, and transportation vehicles. It allows people to move easily between rows of seats, shelves, or compartments. In many cases, aisles serve both practical and aesthetic purposes. In churches, for example, aisles allow for easy movement during services or processions, while in stores, aisles are used to organize products and facilitate shopping. The term can also refer to the space in vehicles like airplanes, allowing passengers to move between seats.
Example Sentences
- The bride walked down the aisle in her beautiful wedding dress.
- I couldn’t find my way through the crowded aisle at the concert.
- The airplane’s aisle was narrow, making it difficult to move around.
- The store was so busy that I had to wait to get down the aisle.
- He dropped his pen and had to crawl to the aisle to pick it up.
- The aisle seats in the theater offer the most legroom.
- The aisle was lined with flowers for the wedding ceremony.
- The train’s aisle was filled with people standing due to a lack of seating.
- She moved quickly down the aisle, hoping to catch the bus.
Synonyms with Short Explanations
- Passage – A corridor or walkway, often used interchangeably with aisle.
- Walkway – A path for walking, especially in public or commercial spaces.
- Corridor – A long, narrow passage, often within a building.
- Hallway – A passage in a building leading to different rooms or areas.
- Pathway – A route or course, often outdoors, for walking or traveling.
Related Words with Short Explanations
- Seating – The arrangement of chairs or benches in rows, often requiring aisles for movement.
- Row – A linear arrangement of seats or items, typically separated by aisles.
- Stage – The platform or area where performers present, typically with aisles for access.
- Chancel – The area near the altar in a church, often connected to aisles.
- Nave – The central part of a church, often flanked by aisles on each side.
More Matches with Short Explanations
- Seat – A place to sit, often arranged in rows and requiring aisles for movement.
- Section – A specific area of a place, such as a theater section with aisles for access.
- Bench – A long seat, often found in places like churches or parks, sometimes in aisles.
- Terminal – A part of an airport where aisles lead to various gates.
- Cabin – A compartment in an airplane, often with aisles separating rows of seats.
Antonyms
- Wall
- Barrier
- Obstruction
- Blockage
- Enclosure
