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A window is an opening in an otherwise solid, opaque surface through which light can pass. For example, a window in the wall of a house, or a window in a scientific measurement device that permits reading of certain wavelengths.
Window is also used metaphorically to refer to a time period during which something can occur and outside of which the thing cannot occur, as in a window of opportunity to launch a rocket to the moon on the most efficient trajectory.
The word Window dates back to Old Norse "Wind Eye"; opening to the air.
A window is an opening in the wall of a building that allows light to enter a room and people to see out. At previous times in history they were merely small oval or square holes in the walls.
Very early windows were shielded with hide or cloth stretched over the opening or wooden shutters. Later, two types of windows were invented that allowed light but not weather to pass into a building: mullioned glass windows, which joined multiple small pieces of glass with leading, and paper windows. Mullioned glass windows were the windows of choice among European well-to-do, whereas paper windows were economical and widely used in ancient China and Japan. In England, glass became common in the windows of ordinary homes only in the early 17th century. Modern-style floor-to-ceiling windows became possible only after the industrial glass-making process was perfected.
Modern windows are customarily large glassed-in rectangles or squares. Churches traditionally have stained glass windows.
Today a window can be made in any shape and size desired.
Modern windows come in many styles. These include:
A replacement window is a framed window designed to slip inside the original window frame from the inside after the old sashes are removed.
A new construction window is a window with a nailing fin designed to be inserted into a rough opening from the outside before applying siding and inside trim.
Modern windows have insulated glazing, called insulated glass when made from glass, which is usually double paned but might be triple paned.
Modern windows are made from large sheets of glass while windows in the past were made from multiple panes held together by a grille within the sash, also called muntin bars or mullions. Today, decorative muntin bars are attached on the surface of the glazing or sandwiched between the panes of the insulated glazing. Most companies use the term grille for the set of decorative muntin bars within a sash.
Frames and sashes were traditionally made of wood, but metal, vinyl, and composites are also common. Solid metal frames and sashes are inefficient because metal conducts heat and cold. Some frames are made of vinyl-clad or aluminum-clad wood. Modern metal window parts consist of two halves separated by insulating spacer.
The terms "single-light" or "double-light" (or "'more'-light") refer to the number of glass panes in a window.
The beam or arch over the top of a window is known as the lintel or transom.
Many windows have movable window coverings to keep out light, provide additional insulation, or ensure privacy.
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