If you’re searching for advice on how to describe a window in a story, but aren’t finding anything useful, this post is especially for you. Read on to learn about 10 words that can be used to create a vivid picture of a window in your novel.
1. Crystalline
Definition
Clear and bright like a jewel or crystal.
Examples
“The crystalline window shimmered with a kaleidoscope of colors as the sunlight streamed through, casting mesmerizing patterns on the floor.”
“The crystalline window transformed the ordinary view into a breathtaking mosaic.”
How it Adds Description
Using the word “crystalline” to describe your window not only shows how clean and clear it is, but also adds a touch of beauty, and uniqueness to its appearance. It creates a vivid image in the reader’s mind, evoking a sense of wonder and enchantment at both the window and what may be seen through it.
2. Curtained
Definition
Being covered with curtains or a thick material that impedes vision.
Examples
“The thickly curtained window refused to let any light or happiness through into the duchess’s bedroom chamber.”
“The window was curtained with a thick layer of grime that had built up steadily through years of neglect.”
How it Adds Description
If you need to show a window that is obscured, try describing it as being “curtained”. This could either be literal curtains or the presence of something else that is obscuring your characters’ vision. Describing a window in this way creates a barrier and a sense of mystery around what is beyond it.
3. Dim
Definition
Not allowing for much light.
Examples
“The dim window barely let in any light, casting a somber atmosphere in the room and obscuring the view outside with its faint and hazy presence.”
“The scratched and frosted window left the room to feel dim, as the light tried to fight its way through the damaged panes.”
How it Adds Description
A “dim” window not only inhibits any light coming through but also creates a somber atmosphere. This might then rub off on your characters and reader, making them feel down and hopeless due to their surroundings.
4. Filthy
Definition
Extremely dirty in a way that is not pleasant.
Examples
“Through the layers of grime and neglect, the filthy window offered only a distorted view of the outside world.”
“The window was so filthy that the only light that came through it was via the smudges of fingerprints.”
How it Adds Description
Instead of simply saying a window is “dirty”, try describing it as “filthy” instead. This creates a sense of neglect and disgust, helping your reader to realize just how unpleasant the window is. It might also make them question how it got into this state, especially if it is directly contrasting to other windows nearby.
5. Opening
Definition
A space that can be passed through.
Examples
“The window, a welcoming opening into the world beyond, invited the gentle breeze and a chorus of birdsong into the room.”
“The window, a humble opening in the wall, served as a silent witness to the ever-changing tapestry of life outside, framing moments of joy, sorrow, and everything in between.”
How it Adds Description
Describing a window as an “opening” not only demonstrates how it connects two spaces, but also has connotations of opportunity and new beginnings. To your character, it could be a metaphor for what the future holds, or be connected with a place that they long to go.
6. Ornate
Definition
Composed of a lot of complicated decoration.
Examples
“The ornate window, adorned with intricate carvings and gilded accents, stood as a majestic centerpiece of the house’s facade.”
“The ornate windows of the cathedral were a testament both to religious history and to the local culture, showing elaborate scenes in colorful panes.”
How it Adds Description
An “ornate” window implies that the window is not just a functional element but also a statement piece, showcasing craftsmanship and artistic flair. As a result, it is likely to be placed inside a grand building such as a palace, helping to build a sense of wonder about the space for your characters and reader.
7. Panoramic
Definition
Giving a view of a wide area.
Examples
“The panoramic window stretched from floor to ceiling, offering an uninterrupted vista of the breathtaking landscape beyond.”
“The expansive panoramic window, like a cinematic frame, captured the sprawling cityscape in all its glory.”
How it Adds Description
A “panoramic” window emphasizes the immersive nature of the view and implies a sense of openness, expansiveness, and grandeur. It conveys the idea that the window serves as a portal to a larger world, offering a breathtaking visual experience and fostering a deep connection with the outside environment.
8. Shuttered
Definition
With shutters closed.
Examples
“The shuttered window, with its tightly closed wooden panels, stood as a silent sentinel, guarding the secrets and solitude of the room within.”
“The weathered shutters on the window, their peeling paint and aged charm told stories of bygone eras, evoking a sense of nostalgia.”
How it Adds Description
Although it depicts the physical appearance of a window with shutters on it, using “shuttered” to describe your windows can also hint at a sense of closure, creating a sense of curiosity around what may be behind it or giving the impression that the person who lives there would not like to be disturbed.
9. Stained
Definition
Marked in a way that is difficult to remove.
Examples
“The stained window, adorned with intricate patterns of vibrant colors, transformed the sunlight into a mesmerizing mosaic.”
“The window was stained with years of ash, smoke, and fumes from the foundry nearby, leaving the occupants to exist in near darkness.”
How it Adds Description
Using the word “stained” to describe a window can work in two ways. It can be used to denote a stained-glass window, which is a piece of art, and conversely be used to describe a window that has been stained by dirt, grime, and age. It is up to you whether your characters and reader are awestruck or disgusted by the “stained” window in this story!
10. Squinting
Definition
- To look with one’s eyes slightly closed.
- A quick look.
Examples
“The window, its weary frame slightly askew, seemed to squint against the harsh glare of the sun as if shielding the room from its piercing rays.”
“The narrow windows appeared like squinting eyes, silently studying all of the visitors who made their way to the castle doors.”
How it Adds Description
If you need to describe a narrow window, try describing it as “squinting”. This human-like quality of slightly closing your eyes can help to describe the window’s shape to your reader, but also give a sense that they are closely watching and judging the characters in your story.