wallpaper

UK: ˈwɔːlpeɪpə | US: ˈwɔːlpeɪpər

Definition

  1. n. Decorative paper or material applied to walls as a covering.

  2. vt. To apply wallpaper to a wall.

Structure
wall <vertical surface>paper <thin material>
Etymology

The word "wallpaper" is a straightforward compound of "wall" (Old English weall, meaning a vertical structure) and "paper" (from Latin papyrus, via Old French papier). It emerged in the 16th century when decorative paper became widely used to adorn interior walls. The term reflects its literal function—paper for walls—and retains this transparent structure in modern usage.

Examples

  1. She chose a floral wallpaper for the bedroom.

  2. The vintage wallpaper peeled at the edges.

  3. He spent the weekend wallpapering the dining room.

  4. The hotel lobby features hand-painted wallpaper.

  5. Removing old wallpaper can be a tedious task.