Parasol
From Design+Encyclopedia, the free encyclopedia on good design, art, architecture, creativity, engineering and innovation.
Parasol
A parasol is a device designed to provide shade from the sun. It is typically composed of a frame made of metal, wood, or plastic, with a canopy made of a waterproof or water-resistant material such as canvas or nylon. The canopy is mounted on top of the frame and is often decorated with intricate designs or patterns. Parasols are commonly used in outdoor settings such as patios, decks, and gardens, but they can also be used indoors in sunrooms or conservatories to add a decorative element to the space. One interesting aspect of parasols is their historical significance. Parasols have been used for centuries in various cultures around the world. In ancient Egypt, parasols were reserved for royalty and were often made of feathers or palm leaves. In China, parasols were used as a symbol of wealth and status, and were made of silk and bamboo. In Europe, parasols became popular in the 18th century as a fashion accessory for women, and were often made of lace or silk. Another important aspect of parasols is their versatility. While they are primarily used to provide shade from the sun, they can also be used for other purposes. For example, parasols can be used as a decorative element in weddings or other special events. They can also be used as a prop in theatrical productions or photography shoots. Overall, parasols are a versatile and practical device that have a rich history and cultural significance. They provide shade from the sun and can be used for a variety of purposes, from fashion accessories to theatrical props.
shade, history, culture, versatility, practical
Parasol
Parasol is an English noun, derived from the French parapluie, which means ‘stop rain’, and is a contraption used to protect oneself from the sun. Common synonyms for parasol include umbrella, sunshade, canopy, and pavilion. Common antonyms for parasol include raincoat, tarp, and bumbershoot. Cognates of parasol in other languages include the Spanish paraguas and the Portuguese guarda-sol. Variants of parasol include parasole, parasoll, parasaol, parcela, parasoled, and parazol.
Etymology Parasols Morphology Lexicography Philology Linguistics Syntax Semantics
Parasol
Parasol has roots in Old French as para-soleil which translates to for the sun, however its appearance in the English language can be traced back to the 1700s. The etymology of the word therefore points to a French origin and over time the term has retained its linguistic identity and morphology. The word is comprised of two root parts, para- meaning for and sol meaning sun, implying its use for sun protection and shade by blocking a portion of sunlight. While the exact use and origin of the physical device is unknown, literary references in the Old Testament indicate that parasols were already in existence for centuries prior to the 1700s. The word has since been used to refer to both its physical manifestation and to its metaphorical version; figuratively parasols are used to describe figurative shelters from the heat of troubles. In terms of pragmatics, the word is mostly used to refer to the physical device constructed from synthetic or natural materials, supported by a frame, with a handle or an extended pole.
etymology, morphology, parasol, French, Old Testament
CITATION : "Henry Fontaine. 'Parasol.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/define/parasol?E=221040 (Accessed on October 14, 2026)"
Parasol
A parasol is a large, lightweight canopy that provides protection against the sun and wind and is typically mounted on a central pole. This type of sunshade has been popular since ancient times, and it is found in many languages around the globe. For example, in French it can be referred to as un parapluie, in Italian come ombrello, in German as ein Sonnenschirm, and in Spanish as un sombrilla. The same type of product is known as un ventaglio in Italian, un parapluie de voyage in French, ein Reisesonnenschirm in German, and un paraguas de viaje in Spanish. Other similar appellations are a parasol de plage in French, un ombrellone in Italian, ein Strandsonnenschirm in German, and un paraguas de playa in Spanish. Finally, un chapiteau in French, un ombrellone da giardino in Italian, ein Gartensonnenschirm in German, and un paraguas de jardín in Spanish, all refer to a parasol used outside in gardens and on beaches.
Parasol, parapluie, ombrello, Sonnenschirm, sombrilla, ventaglio, parapluie de voyage, Reisesonnenschirm, paraguas de viaje, parasol de plage, ombrellone, Strandsonnenschirm, paraguas de playa, chapiteau, ombrellone da giardino, Gartensonnenschirm, paragu
Parasol
A parasol is a device used to provide shade from the sun. It typically consists of a metal or wooden frame, with a fabric canopy mounted on top. The canopy is usually made of a waterproof or water-resistant material, such as canvas or nylon. Parasols are often used in outdoor settings, such as patios, decks, and gardens, to provide protection from the sun's rays. They can also be used indoors, such as in a conservatory or sunroom, to provide a decorative element to the space.
Sun protection, shade, UV rays, outdoor, fabric, canopy, waterproof.
Parasol on Design+Encyclopedia
We have 220,822 Topics and 478,829 Entries and Parasol has 5 entries on Design+Encyclopedia. Design+Encyclopedia is a free encyclopedia, written collaboratively by designers, creators, artists, innovators and architects. Become a contributor and expand our knowledge on Parasol today.