Parquetry

Word of the Day

Parquetry is a noun that refers to a floor design made of geometric shapes.

Coming from the French term for ‘small enclosed space,’ our word of the day refers to a pattern commonly used on flooring or furniture. It entered the English language in the early 19th century at the same time the pattern was gaining popularity. Here’s an example of parquetry in use:

As a math enthusiast, I tend to get excited when I see parquetry anywhere. The image of geometric shapes carved into an end table or chest of drawers tends to make me far more excited about furniture than any reasonable person should be.