Word
grille
US/ˈɡɹɪɫ/
UK/ɡɹˈɪl/
Countable noun
Definition
n. a frame of metal bars that covers an opening, like the front of a car or a window. It lets air or light through while keeping things safe or hidden.
n. a grating or screen of metal bars or wires, typically used as a protective cover or decorative element for an opening. Often refers to the component at the front of a vehicle that allows air to reach the radiator.
Examples
“The car has a shiny silver grille on the front.”
“Air flows through the front grille to cool the engine while the car is moving.”
“The architect specified a decorative iron grille for the ground-floor windows to provide security without sacrificing the building's historical aesthetic.”
Examples
simple
“The car has a shiny silver grille on the front.”
contextual
“Air flows through the front grille to cool the engine while the car is moving.”
complex
“The architect specified a decorative iron grille for the ground-floor windows to provide security without sacrificing the building's historical aesthetic.”
Usage
Often confused with 'grill' (the cooking device), though 'grille' specifically refers to the architectural or automotive screen.
Pitfall
the car's front grill
the car's front grille
While 'grill' refers to a cooking appliance, 'grille' with an 'e' is the standard spelling for a protective screen on a vehicle or building.
Real-World Examples
“The company's new “Lifestyle Collection”—designed with a snazzy fabric-wrapped grille and gentle curves—includes the Lifestyle Ultra Speaker, Lifestyle Ultra Subwoofer, and Lifestyle Ultra Soundbar.” Etymology
Borrowed from French grille.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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QR code
englishreference.com/q/grille