clapboard

Definition

A narrow board, usually thicker at one edge than the other, used as siding for houses and similar structures of frame construction.

Etymology

From Middle English clapholt, from Middle Low German or Middle Dutch klapholt. The part "holt" was later calqued to "board".

Example Sentences

• "Its exterior is covered with clapboards stained dark brown."
• "As the train wound along the river valleys through western Pennsylvania the scenery grew more rugged and the painted houses of Lancaster County gave way to dirty clapboard dwellings and shack homes clinging to the mountainside."