noun

la paroi

wall

Surface solide et verticale qui sépare ou protège deux espaces.

The French word "paroi" refers to a wall or partition, particularly a natural or structural surface that separates spaces. It is often used in contexts like anatomy, geology, or architecture.

Meaning:

  • Paroi is a feminine noun meaning a wall or partition, usually emphasizing a more natural or structural aspect than "mur" (which more commonly refers to a constructed wall of a building).
  • It can refer to:
    • The wall inside a body organ or cavity (e.g., "paroi de l'estomac" = wall of the stomach).
    • A rock face or cliff wall in natural contexts.
    • In architecture or buildings, it can mean a dividing wall or panel.

Parts / Etymology:

  • From Old French paroi, related to Latin paries meaning “wall” or “partition.”

Synonyms:

  • Mur (wall) – generally a constructed wall, closer to everyday use.
  • Cloison (partition) – a thinner or lighter dividing surface, like a partition or screen.
  • Face (face or surface) – when referring to natural rock walls.

Antonyms:

  • Ouverture (opening) – since a paroi is a separating structure, the opposite could be an opening or gap.
  • Vide (void) or espace (space) – an area without a wall or partition.

Summary

AspectExplanation
MeaningWall or partition, natural or structural surface
Common usesBody organs, geological formations, architectural walls
SynonymsMur, cloison, face
AntonymsOuverture, vide, espace

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Examples

La paroi de la grotte est froide.noun

The wall of the cave is cold.

Une peinture particulière recouvre la paroi de la salle.noun

A special painting covers the wall of the room.

Les parois du tunnel semblaient humides après la pluie.noun

The walls of the tunnel seemed damp after the rain.

Le guide a expliqué que cette paroi rocheuse peut s’effondrer soudainement.noun

The guide explained that this rock wall can suddenly collapse.

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