parlor

par-lor · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A sitting room in a private house, especially one used for receiving guests (dated or formal usage).

  2. 2.

    A shop or business establishment providing specified goods or services.

  3. 3.

    A room in a public building for receiving visitors.

Forms

plural: parlors

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    beauty parlor — a salon offering hairdressing and beauty treatments
  • •
    funeral parlor — an establishment where the dead are prepared for burial
  • •
    ice cream parlor — a shop selling ice cream and related treats
  • •
    pizza parlor — a restaurant specializing in pizza

Related words

See also: lounge, room, salon
Synonyms: living room, lounge, sitting room

Etymology

From Anglo-French parlur and Old French parloir ("room for conversation"), from parler ("to speak"). Originally referred to a room in a monastery where conversation with visitors was permitted.