abat-vent

noun

ˌäˌbäˈväⁿ,

F ȧbȧväⁿ

plural abat-vents

-äⁿz,

F -äⁿ

1

: a series of sloping boards used (as in a belfry light) to break the wind without obstructing the passage of air or sound

2

: a sloping roof (as of a penthouse)

3

: a metal chimney cap

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from French, literally, "(it) strikes down (abat) the wind (vent)," from abattre "to strike down" + vent "wind," going back to Old French, going back to Latin ventus

First Known Use

1860, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Love words?

You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.

Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:

• More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
• Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
• Advanced search features
• Ad free!