Hátlap

Hátlap, in Hungarian, refers to the back panel or back board of an object. It is a flat sheet or board fixed to the rear side to close, reinforce, or finish the back, contributing to the structure's stability and appearance. The exact form and material vary by application and era.

In furniture and cabinetry, a hátlap is the back panel of items such as cabinets, chests, and bookcases. It is usually a thin sheet of plywood, hardboard, or MDF, sometimes nailed, stapled, or screwed into place, and occasionally glued. Its main functions are to provide rigidity, prevent racking, and keep dust or drafts out, while also helping to keep the piece square.

In electronics and appliances, the term can describe the back cover or rear panel that closes the unit and conceals internals. These back panels are often made of metal or plastic and may include ventilation openings, access ports, or removable fastenings to facilitate servicing and cable routing.

In frames and mirrors, the hátlap serves as the backing behind the artwork or glass. It is typically a fiberboard, cardboard, or thin wood sheet, sometimes equipped with protection, padding, or hanging hardware.

The concept is general and may appear in various crafts and industries. While some objects use removable back panels for maintenance, others have fixed backs that are not intended to be serviced. The term emphasizes the rear-facing component that stabilizes and completes the construction.