ENGLISH
REFERENCE

travis

n. countable
C2 Proficiency US //ˈtɹævɪs// travis Archaic

n. a horizontal bar or beam that crosses over something. It is an old word for a divider or a part of a window frame.

n. a horizontal crossbar or transverse beam, particularly in a window or across a screen. Archaic in general usage; occasionally encountered in architectural or historical contexts.


SIMPLE

The light shone through the wooden travis of the old window.

CONTEXTUAL

The architect pointed out the decorative travis that divided the upper panes of the cathedral windows.

COMPLEX

In the restoration of the medieval hall, craftsmen were careful to replicate the original travis to maintain the structural integrity of the timber partitions.

Usage

Primarily used in architectural descriptions or historical literature; largely replaced by 'transom' or 'crossbar' in modern English.

© 2026 English Reference