The parapet is an architectural element.
The dictionary of the Royal Spanish Academy ( RAE ) recognizes six meanings of the term parapet . The concept is formed with the compositional element ante- (which indicates spatial or temporal anteriority) and the noun chest (which can refer to the body part that goes from the neck to the belly, for example).
The first meaning of parapet, in this framework, refers to a protection element that is used in architecture. Also called a parapet , the parapet is a small wall or wall that is developed in high places so that people can lean out safely , without the risk of falling.
Parapet Features
It is important to indicate that there are different types of parapet. At a general level, it can be stated that its purpose is to prevent falls.
In this way, the parapet is a safety resource when there are unevenness. In some cases, the parapet makes it possible to delimit a transit area.
Its function on balconies and windows
On a balcony or a window , the sill is the wall that serves as support in the lower area . This is the solid sector that constitutes the lower part of the opening .
Usually the parapet is built with those materials with which the exterior wall is developed. It extends between the floor and the hole and can be solid or openwork, according to its characteristics.
The dimensions of the sill, whether for a balcony or a window, depend on different factors. If we focus on the window, the width and height of the wall must be taken into account, to mention one piece of information.
It should be noted that the parapet usually has a gutter to facilitate the expulsion of rainwater. This piece is developed on a slope with the aim of promoting runoff.
In a window, the sill is the wall that functions as support in the lower sector.
Windowsill in cars
The RAE indicates that the idea of a parapet appears in the field of cars and horses . In both cases, these are pieces of cowhide (tanned leather).
In a running board car, in this way, the parapet is called the cowl whose ends are nailed to wooden slats that protect the running board. Whoever sits on the stirrup can hold onto the parapet.
Regarding the shooting cavalry, the parapet is one of the components of the trappings (the decorations and garrisons). This cow, which is usually filled with wool and covered with padding, falls on the animal 's chest to prevent injuries.
Crossbow part
The notion of parapet is present in crossbows , which are portable weapons capable of firing projectiles (such as arrows). To shoot, crossbows use a spring and a string.
The forend is a small bone that protects the upper part of the nut of the weapon. The nut, meanwhile, serves to rig and secure the rope .
Other uses of parapet
The RAE , finally, refers to two other uses of this term. Certain pieces that are part of a loom (a machine used to make fabrics) can be called a parapet.
In Spain , finally, a mineral massif in the Marbella and Linares mines is mentioned as a parapet.