secretaire Definition
a piece of furniture, typically a desk with a hinged writing flap and drawers or cabinets below, often made in the form of a tall, narrow chest of drawers.
Using secretaire: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "secretaire" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The antique secretaire was a family heirloom.
Example
She sat down at the secretaire to write her letter.
Example
The secretaire was made of mahogany and had intricate carvings.
secretaire Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for secretaire
- bureau
- escritoire
- writing desk
Phrases with secretaire
a type of secretaire that has a bookcase on top
Example
The secretaire bookcase was a perfect fit for the small study.
secretaire à abattant
a type of secretaire that has a hinged writing flap that folds down to form a writing surface
Example
The secretaire à abattant was a popular style during the 18th century.
a type of secretaire that has a writing surface that slides out from a cabinet
Example
The secretaire en armoire was a common feature in many French homes during the 19th century.
Origins of secretaire
from French 'secrétaire', meaning 'secretary'
Summary: secretaire in Brief
A 'secretaire' [sek-ruh-ter, -tree-er] is a type of furniture that is typically a desk with a hinged writing flap and drawers or cabinets below. It is often made in the form of a tall, narrow chest of drawers. Examples of usage include 'The antique secretaire was a family heirloom.' and 'She sat down at the secretaire to write her letter.' Different types of secretaire include the 'secretaire bookcase,' 'secretaire à abattant,' and 'secretaire en armoire.'