How Do You Spell CURTAIN?

Pronunciation: [kˈɜːtən] (IPA)

The word "curtain" is spelled with the IPA phonetic transcription /ˈkɜː.tən/. The first sound is the "k" sound, followed by the back vowel "ɜː" which is pronounced with the tongue lifted to the back of the mouth. The "t" sound is then pronounced, followed by the short "ə" sound. Finally, the "n" sound is pronounced. This spelling of "curtain" accurately represents the sounds of the word and allows it to be pronounced correctly by speakers of English.

Meaning and Definition
Top Common Misspellings
Other Common Misspellings
Etymology
Idioms
Similar spelling words
Plural
Conjugate verb
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CURTAIN Meaning and Definition

  1. A curtain is a piece of fabric or material that is hung to cover a window or doorway, typically used for privacy, blocking sunlight, or as a decorative element. It is a versatile item that can be found in homes, offices, theaters, and other spaces.

    Curtains are commonly made from various fabrics such as cotton, silk, linen, or polyester, with different patterns, colors, and textures to suit different interior designs. They are often attached to a rod or rail and can be opened or closed using various mechanisms like cords, hooks, or rings.

    The primary purpose of curtains is to provide privacy by obstructing the view and preventing outsiders from seeing inside a room. Additionally, they control the amount of sunlight entering the space, allowing for light regulation and the creation of a desired ambiance. Curtains can also offer protection from dust or drafts, acting as a barrier between the interior and exterior environment.

    Beyond their functional uses, curtains also serve as a decorative feature, enhancing the overall aesthetic of a room. They can be used to accentuate a specific color scheme, add texture or patterns, or create a focal point. Curtains are often complemented with other window treatments such as valances, tiebacks, or blinds, allowing for further customization and personalization of the space.

    Overall, curtains are a multi-purpose element in interior design, providing privacy, light regulation, protection, and enhancing the decorative appeal of a room.

  2. • A movable cloth hung round a bed, at a window, or in front of a stage; any piece of movable drapery used for concealment; the part of a wall or rampart which joins the flanks of two bastions together.
    • To inclose by means of curtains.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for CURTAIN *

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for CURTAIN

Etymology of CURTAIN

The word "curtain" originated from the Middle English word "curteine", which was derived from the Old French word "cortine" or "curtine". These French terms were further derived from the Late Latin word "cortina", meaning "curtain" or "tapestry". The original Latin term had various meanings, including "a hanging sheet", "a covering", or "a curtain". The etymology of "curtain" ultimately traces back to the Latin word "cortex", meaning "bark" or "rind". This connection suggests that the original purpose of curtains might have been to create a barrier using materials like bark or animal hides.

Idioms with the word CURTAIN

  • ring the curtain up The idiom "ring the curtain up" refers to the act of starting or commencing a performance or event, especially in a theatrical context. It represents the moment when the curtain is raised or lifted to begin the show. It can also be used metaphorically to mean the initiation or beginning of any activity or endeavor.
  • ring the curtain down The idiom "ring the curtain down" refers to the action of bringing a performance or event to an end, typically in a dramatic or final fashion. It can be used metaphorically to describe the conclusion or culmination of an event, project, or situation.
  • the final curtain The idiom "the final curtain" refers to the end or conclusion of something, often symbolizing the end of a career, a performance, or even one's life. It is derived from the theatrical term "curtain call," where actors would take their final bow at the end of a play when the curtains closed. Thus, "the final curtain" signifies the ultimate or last stage of an event or situation.
  • curtain sth off The idiom "curtain something off" refers to the act of enclosing or separating a specific area or object by hanging a curtain. It is often used metaphorically to indicate the creation of a barrier or division between different sections or aspects of something.
  • ring down the curtain The idiom "ring down the curtain" means to bring an end to an event or performance, typically a theatrical production. It refers to the action of lowering or closing the curtain at the end of the show, signaling its conclusion.
  • ring up the curtain The idiom "ring up the curtain" refers to the moment when a theatrical performance or a show begins. It is traditionally used to indicate the lifting or unfolding of the stage curtain that separates the performers from the audience, commencing the start of the show.
  • lift the curtain on The idiom "lift the curtain on" means to reveal or expose something that was previously hidden or unknown. It is often used metaphorically, likening the unveiling of something to the opening of a theater curtain that reveals what is happening on stage.
  • an iron curtain The idiom "an iron curtain" refers to a physical or metaphorical barrier that separates or isolates one group or region from another, typically associated with totalitarian rule, political ideologies, or information control. It originated from Winston Churchill's 1946 speech, where he used the term to describe the division between Western Europe and the Soviet Union during the Cold War era.
  • iron curtain The idiom "iron curtain" refers to a political boundary or ideological division that separates two contrasting worlds, often used to describe the divide between Western democratic nations and the Eastern Bloc during the Cold War. It symbolizes the physical and ideological barrier created by the Soviet Union and its satellite states to isolate themselves from the influence of the West.
  • ring down the curtain on The idiom "ring down the curtain on" means to bring an end to something, especially a decisive or final conclusion to an event, period, or situation. It originates from the action of ringing a bell to signal the closing of a theater or the end of a performance.
  • curtain off The idiom "curtain off" refers to the act of separating or isolating something, often used metaphorically. It implies creating a boundary or division between different areas, situations, or aspects to maintain privacy, confidentiality, or distinctiveness.
  • draw the curtain The idiom "draw the curtain" means to conceal or hide something, usually an undesirable or private aspect of a situation or event. It is often used to indicate the act of keeping something secret or preventing others from knowing about it.
  • draw the curtain on (something) The idiom "draw the curtain on (something)" means to bring an end to something, often in a final or conclusive manner. It is derived from the action of closing a curtain on a stage, which signifies the end of a performance or event.
  • draw the curtain over (something) The idiom "draw the curtain over (something)" means to hide, conceal, or put an end to a situation, event, or topic. It suggests bringing something to an end or keeping it private, often with the intention of avoiding further discussion or scrutiny.
  • lift the curtain (on something) The idiom "lift the curtain (on something)" means to reveal or expose something that was previously hidden or unknown. It is often used metaphorically to describe the act of providing insight or information about a particular subject or situation, thereby granting a deeper understanding or clarification.
  • raise the curtain The idiom "raise the curtain" refers to the act of beginning or initiating something, often an event or performance. It is derived from the literal action of lifting the curtain at the start of a play or show.
  • raise the curtain (on something) The idiom "raise the curtain (on something)" refers to the moment when a show or event officially begins. It originates from the practice of physically lifting the curtain on a stage to reveal what is about to occur. Figuratively, it denotes the point where something is unveiled or starts, often with a sense of anticipation or excitement.
  • curtain something off The idiom "curtain something off" refers to the act of intentionally separating or isolating a specific space or area from the surrounding environment, usually by using a physical barrier like a curtain. It can also used metaphorically to mean separating or hiding a particular aspect or information from others.
  • bring down the curtain on The idiom "bring down the curtain on" means to put an end to or conclude something, typically an event, a period of time, or a chapter. It originated from the theatrical act of lowering the curtain at the end of a performance, symbolizing the finality and completion of the production.
  • the curtain comes down on The idiom "the curtain comes down on" refers to the end or conclusion of something, often an event or a specific period of time. It originates from the theater, where the curtain is traditionally lowered at the end of a performance. Therefore, when someone says "the curtain comes down on," they are indicating that a particular situation, event, era, or phase is reaching its final moments or coming to an end.
  • the curtain falls on (something) The idiom "the curtain falls on (something)" refers to the ending or completion of a particular event, situation, or period of time, often implying the conclusion of a significant or dramatic moment. It metaphorically alludes to the lowering of a curtain on a stage after a performance, symbolizing the end of a spectacle or show.
  • curtain raiser The idiom "curtain raiser" refers to an introductory event or performance that precedes the main one. It originated from the theater, where a short act or performance was staged before the opening of the main play to warm up the audience and set the mood for the evening. In a broader sense, it can also refer to a preliminary event or activity that serves as an introduction to a larger event or series of events.
  • the curtain comes down on sth The idiom "the curtain comes down on sth" refers to the end or conclusion of something, usually an event or series of events. It originated from the world of theater, where the closing of the curtain signals the end of a performance. This idiom is often used metaphorically to indicate the finality or completion of a particular situation, project, era, or any other event.
  • bring down the curtain on something The idiom "bring down the curtain on something" means to conclude or bring an end to a particular event, activity, or period. It references the action of closing a theater curtain, symbolizing the end of a performance. It can be used to describe the conclusion of a project, a relationship, or any other endeavor.
  • the curtain falls on sth The idiom "the curtain falls on sth" typically means the end or conclusion of an event, situation, or person's life. It draws its origin from the idea of a theater curtain closing at the end of a performance.
  • curtain lectures The idiom "curtain lectures" refers to private conversations or lectures that take place between married couples behind closed doors, often at nighttime when they are in bed and the curtains are drawn. These discussions typically involve one spouse reprimanding or lecturing the other about various issues or grievances. The term is rooted in the historical practice of having separate beds or sleeping arrangements for couples, allowing for more privacy and intimate conversations.
  • bring/ring down the curtain The idiom "bring/ring down the curtain" means to bring an end or conclusion to something, typically an event, performance, or situation. It comes from theater terminology, where "bringing down the curtain" refers to the action of closing the theater curtain at the end of a play or performance.
  • the curtain comes down on (something) The idiom "the curtain comes down on (something)" means the end or conclusion of an event, performance, or period of time. It is often used when referring to the closure of a significant chapter or the final stages of a particular situation or endeavor.
  • the curtain falls The idiom "the curtain falls" typically refers to the end or conclusion of a performance or event, especially in the context of theater or entertainment. It represents the moment when the curtains on a stage are closed, indicating that the show or presentation has come to an end.
  • curtain lecture A "curtain lecture" refers to a reprimand or scolding given to someone, typically a husband, by their wife in private, often in bed before going to sleep. It is called a "curtain lecture" because it was historically believed that the bed's curtains would hide the conversation, allowing for more privacy.
  • bring down the curtain The idiom "bring down the curtain" means to bring an end or conclude something, typically a performance or an event. It denotes the action of lowering or closing the curtain on a stage, symbolizing the end of a play, show, or presentation. It can also be used more broadly to describe the conclusion or termination of any activity or situation.
  • the bamboo curtain The idiom "the bamboo curtain" refers to the political and geographic barrier that existed between China and the rest of the world during the Cold War era. It was inspired by the term "the iron curtain" used to describe the divide between communist and non-communist countries in Europe. The bamboo curtain symbolizes the limited access to information, restricted travel, and control over media and communication that characterized China's isolationist policies during that time.
  • bring the curtain down on something The idiom "bring the curtain down on something" means to end or conclude something, typically an event or performance, in a dramatic or final way. It alludes to the action of drawing a theater curtain to mark the end of a play or show.

Similar spelling words for CURTAIN

Plural form of CURTAIN is CURTAINS

Conjugate verb Curtain

CONDITIONAL PERFECT

I would have curtained
you would have curtained
he/she/it would have curtained
we would have curtained
they would have curtained
I would have curtain
you would have curtain
he/she/it would have curtain
we would have curtain
they would have curtain

CONDITIONAL PERFECT PROGRESSIVE

I would have been curtaining
you would have been curtaining
he/she/it would have been curtaining
we would have been curtaining
they would have been curtaining

CONDITIONAL PRESENT

I would curtain
you would curtain
he/she/it would curtain
we would curtain
they would curtain

CONDITIONAL PRESENT PROGRESSIVE

I would be curtaining
you would be curtaining
he/she/it would be curtaining
we would be curtaining
they would be curtaining

FUTURE

I will curtain
you will curtain
he/she/it will curtain
we will curtain
they will curtain

FUTURE CONTINUOUS

I will be curtaining
you will be curtaining
he/she/it will be curtaining
we will be curtaining
they will be curtaining

FUTURE PERFECT

I will have curtained
you will have curtained
he/she/it will have curtained
we will have curtained
they will have curtained

FUTURE PERFECT CONTINUOUS

I will have been curtaining
you will have been curtaining
he/she/it will have been curtaining
we will have been curtaining
they will have been curtaining

IMPERATIVE

you curtain
we let´s curtain

NONFINITE VERB FORMS

to curtain

PAST CONTINUOUS

I was curtaining
you were curtaining
he/she/it was curtaining
we were curtaining
they were curtaining

PAST PARTICIPLE

curtained

PAST PERFECT

I had curtained
you had curtained
he/she/it had curtained
we had curtained
they had curtained

PAST PERFECT CONTINUOUS

I had been curtaining
you had been curtaining
he/she/it had been curtaining
we had been curtaining
they had been curtaining

PRESENT

I curtain
you curtain
he/she/it curtains
we curtain
they curtain

PRESENT CONTINUOUS

I am curtaining
you are curtaining
he/she/it is curtaining
we are curtaining
they are curtaining

PRESENT PARTICIPLE

curtaining

PRESENT PERFECT

I have curtained
you have curtained
he/she/it has curtained
we have curtained
they have curtained

PRESENT PERFECT CONTINUOUS

I have been curtaining
you have been curtaining
he/she/it has been curtaining
we have been curtaining
they have been curtaining

PRESENT SUBJUNCTIVE

he/she/it curtain

SIMPLE PAST

I curtained
you curtained
he/she/it curtained
we curtained
they curtained

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Correct spelling for curtain
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