parapet

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'parapet' is correct and commonly used in written English.
A parapet is a low protective wall or barrier, typically at the edge of a roof or balcony. Example: The castle's parapet overlooked the vast expanse of green fields and rolling hills. From atop the parapet, the knights could see their enemy's army approaching in the distance.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He told the Good Morning Scotland programme: "I wouldn't even have put my head above the parapet if I didn't know I had that support".

The Guardian

I want to grab life by the throat, even if every time you raise your head above the parapet somebody tries to shoot you down".

The Guardian

But you're not going to go out there and raise your head above the parapet and say anything – you're not under any obligation to do so.

The Guardian

In Texas, with 10% of America's schoolchildren, textbook publishers have been keen to accommodate the preferences of the state board of education, and school districts themselves prefer not to put their heads above the parapet.

The Economist

According to one account King Aleksandar clung onto the parapet until one of the assassins chopped off his fingers.

The Economist

Hamas, on the defensive in the West Bank, has closed its media offices and retreated beneath the parapet.

The Economist

He peeks over the parapet of the Hamra hotel and through the bullet-proof glass of an American Humvee.

The Economist

When they got to the garage Mr Milinković, who a friend said had been depressed lately, walked to a parapet, climbed over and then jumped to his death.

The Economist

The postilions lost all command of them, and they darted forward towards the bridge, the parapet of which the leaders cleared at a bound.

The Economist

They were bookish, educated men, poking their heads above the parapet to challenge various religious conventions.

The Economist

Both of these criticisms have merit.For things that clearly do have the springlike quality of shifting irreversibly if pulled (or pushed) too far, like the collapse of ice sheets or the melting of permafrost, a boundary system that seeks to stop you getting too close to the threshold seems as sensible as a safety rail is on a parapet.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing historical architecture, use "parapet" to accurately convey the presence of a low protective wall, especially on fortifications or buildings with rooftop access.

Common error

Avoid using "balustrade" when "parapet" is more accurate. A balustrade is typically ornamental, while a "parapet" serves a functional purpose as a low protective wall.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "parapet" is as a noun. It typically functions as the subject or object of a sentence, denoting a specific architectural structure. Ludwig confirms its validity and common usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Encyclopedias

27%

Science

17%

Less common in

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "parapet" is a noun referring to a low protective wall, often found on the edge of a roof, balcony, or fortification. Ludwig AI confirms that it's grammatically correct and commonly used. Analysis of numerous examples reveals that "parapet" frequently appears in news and media, encyclopedias, and scientific contexts. Its function is primarily descriptive, aiding in precise architectural or historical depictions. While "parapet" is often used in a neutral register, it tends towards formal, particularly in technical or historical writing. Related phrases include "low wall", "retaining wall", and "protective barrier", offering alternative ways to describe similar structures. To avoid confusion, remember that a "parapet" is different from a "balustrade", with the former serving a functional role and the latter being more ornamental.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

low wall

Focuses on the height attribute of the structure.

retaining wall

Emphasizes the function of holding back earth or material.

protective barrier

Highlights the safety aspect of the structure.

balustrade

Suggests a more ornamental barrier, often on balconies or stairs.

edge railing

Specifies a safety feature at the edge of a structure.

roof perimeter

Indicates the structure's location on a roof.

fortification wall

Highlights the defensive purpose of the structure.

breastwork

A more specific term for a low defensive wall.

battlements

Refers to a notched parapet used for defense.

safety railing

Indicates a railing designed for safety.

FAQs

How to use "parapet" in a sentence?

Use "parapet" to describe a low protective wall along the edge of a roof, balcony, or fortification. For example, "The soldiers stood behind the "parapet", defending the castle."

What's the difference between "parapet" and a railing?

A "parapet" is a low wall, while a railing is typically made of vertical posts and horizontal bars. A parapet is solid, offering more protection, whereas a railing primarily serves as a barrier to prevent falls.

What are some structures similar to a "parapet"?

Structures similar to a "parapet" include "retaining wall", "breastwork", or even a low "protective barrier" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use the word "parapet"?

Use "parapet" when describing architectural features, especially in historical or military contexts. For modern buildings, "edge railing" or "safety railing" might be more appropriate.