Definition

A decorative board that is placed along the edge of a sloping roof, usually at the front of a gable, to cover the roof structure and add style.

Example

The old house had beautiful bargeboards that enhanced its architectural charm.

Conversation

Have you ever noticed the beautiful bargeboard on that old house down the street?

Yeah, it really adds character to the building!

I love how ornate the bargeboard is, it makes the roof look so elegant.

Definitely! It’s amazing how details like that can change the whole look.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Bargeboard → The word is formed from "barge" (from Old French *barge*, meaning a flat-bottomed boat) and "board" (from Old English *bord*, meaning side or plank). A bargeboard is a board or plank that is attached to the gable of a roof, resembling the side of a boat.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'flat-bottomed boat' ('barge') and a 'plank' ('board') — a bargeboard is like a plank that resembles the side of a boat on a roof.

Visually Confused Words