What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
scantling
Example
The carpenter used a scantling to reinforce the frame of the house. [scantling: noun]
Example
The room was decorated with a beautiful scantling of wood along the ceiling. [scantling: strip of wood]
Example
There was only a scantling of food left in the pantry. [scantling: small quantity]
lath
Example
The garden was enclosed by a lath fence covered in vines. [lath: noun]
Example
The walls were made of lath and plaster. [lath: building material]
Example
She used a lath to weave together the strands of her basket. [lath: tool]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Lath is more commonly used than scantling in everyday language, especially in Europe. Scantling is less common and is typically used in technical or specialized contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between scantling and lath?
Both scantling and lath are formal words that are typically used in technical or specialized contexts, such as construction or woodworking.