Etymology of the term “threshold”:
– Various false etymologies exist, some dating back to Old English or earlier.
– Different forms of the word in Old English indicate obscurity in its original meaning.
– Modern dictionaries do not reflect the latest etymological research.
– The term likely originally referred to a threshing area.
Cultural Symbolism of the threshold:
– In Poland, Ukraine, and Russia, it is considered bad luck to shake hands or kiss across the threshold.
– Carrying the bride over the threshold is seen as good luck in many countries.
– The threshold holds special symbolism in various cultures.
References related to the threshold:
– Wikimedia Commons has media related to door sills.
– ‘Our Habitat: The Etymology of Threshold’ – OUPblog.
– ‘Polish Superstitions’ – Polish Language.org.
– ‘Russian Superstition’ – Russian Language for Lovers.
– ‘Carrying the Bride: Exactly Why?’ – How Stuff Works.
Categories related to the threshold:
– Doors.
– Superstitions.
– Architectural elements.
– Sociology stubs.
Hidden Categories related to the threshold:
– Articles with short descriptions.
– Short description matches Wikidata.
– All articles with unsourced statements.
– Articles with unsourced statements from November 2020.
– Commons category link is on Wikidata.
A threshold is the sill of a door. Some cultures attach special symbolism to a threshold. It is called a door saddle in New England.[citation needed]
Door thresholds cover the gap between the floor and the door frame, helping to prevent any water leaks, insects or draughts from entering through the opening.
Definition from ChatGPT:
Threshold (architecture):
In architecture, the term "threshold" refers to the point of entry or transition between two spaces. It is the physical or visual boundary that separates one area from another, such as the entrance to a building, a doorway, or a hallway. Thresholds can be designed to create a sense of arrival, mark a change in function or atmosphere, and provide a sense of transition between different areas within a building.