Roof

/ruːf/

Meaning & Definition

noun
The upper covering of a building, which protects it from the weather.
The roof of the house was damaged during the storm.
A similar structure covering a vehicle, such as a car or bus.
He placed the luggage on the roof of the car.
The upper limit or covering of something, often used metaphorically.
The ceiling felt like the roof of his ambitions, limiting what he could achieve.
verb
To provide a roof for; cover or shelter.
They decided to roof the patio to enjoy it year-round.
To put a roof on a building.
The construction crew will roof the new library next week.

Etymology

Old English 'hrof', of Germanic origin.

Common Phrases and Expressions

under one roof
Living together in the same place.
raise the roof
To create a lot of noise or excitement.
get off the roof
To stop daydreaming or fantasizing.

Related Words

gable
The part of a wall that encloses the end of a pitched roof.
eaves
The part of a roof that meets or overhangs the walls of a building.
shingle
A thin piece of material used to cover the roof.

Slang Meanings

Roofied
He was roofied at the party, which caused him to lose his memory.
Roofing
They were roofing it, meaning they were hanging out at the top of a building.