deur

Deur is the Dutch word for a door, the movable barrier that closes an opening in a wall and regulates access, privacy, light, and climate. A typical door consists of a solid panel mounted in a frame, connected by hinges to the door jamb and equipped with a handle or knob; many doors also include a latch or lock and weatherstripping.

Etymology: The word deur is cognate with English door and German Tür, deriving from ancient West Germanic roots related to opening and enclosure. The term is used across Dutch-speaking regions to denote a barrier that can be opened or closed.

Design and materials: Doors are made from wood, metal, fiberglass, or composite materials. Frames are usually timber, steel, or PVC. Hardware includes hinges (often butt hinges), door closers, latches, locks, strike plates, and weatherstripping to reduce drafts and improve energy efficiency. Fire-rating and acoustic performance are additional considerations in many applications.

Types and variations: Interior doors separate rooms and provide privacy, while exterior doors balance security with insulation. Sliding and pocket doors save space in tight layouts, and French doors feature multiple panels of glazing. Revolving doors enable continuous movement in high-traffic areas. A Dutch door, historically split horizontally into upper and lower halves, remains a recognized variant in some regions.

Cultural and practical context: In Dutch architecture, doors reflect considerations of safety, insulation, and usability, often incorporating weather sealing and standardized dimensions. Modern doors may integrate electronic locks, smart controls, and security features while maintaining traditional functions of access and enclosure.