parlor
word
Definition
A parlor is a room used for sitting and receiving guests, especially in older or formal homes. It can also mean a type of business shop, as in "ice cream parlor" or "funeral parlor."
Usage & Nuances
This word sounds old-fashioned for a room in a house; modern English usually says "living room" or "sitting room." It is still common in set business names like "ice cream parlor," "massage parlor," and "funeral parlor."
Example Sentences
They invited us into the parlor for tea.
basic
There is a small ice cream parlor near my school.
basic
The old house has a front parlor and a dining room.
basic
We ended up at a little parlor downtown that serves homemade pie.
natural
The realtor called it a parlor, but it’s basically just a living room.
natural
That old hotel still has a piano in the parlor, which gives the place a vintage feel.
natural