foyer

noun

foy·​er ˈfȯi(-ə)r How to pronounce foyer (audio) ˈfȯi-ˌ(y)ā How to pronounce foyer (audio)
also ˈfwä-ˌyā
Synonyms of foyer
: an anteroom or lobby especially of a theater
also : an entrance hallway : vestibule

Synonyms of foyer

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Examples of foyer in a Sentence

theatergoers crowded the foyer during the play's intermission leave your muddy boots in the foyer and come into the house
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
As with the entry foyer, multiple large windows effectively create a wall of glass overlooking the view, while sliding glass doors provide easy access to a rear deck that spans the rear of the home. — James Alexander, Hartford Courant, 6 Sep. 2026 The portion of the ceiling fell in the grand foyer, which will remain closed through the weekend until repairs can be made. — Claire Carter, The Washington Examiner, 5 Sep. 2026 The home’s wrought-iron double doors open into an arrival foyer, where soaring ceilings and custom stone floors set the tone for the entire estate. — David Caraccio, Sacbee.com, 5 Sep. 2026 The black walnut double staircase in the center hall foyer has carved lions. — Pete Grathoff, Kansas City Star, 2 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for foyer

Word History

Etymology

French, literally, fireplace, from Vulgar Latin *focarium, from Latin focus hearth

First Known Use

1833, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of foyer was in 1833

Rhymes for foyer

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Browse Nearby Words

foy boat
foyer
Foyle
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Cite this Entry

“Foyer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/foyer. Accessed 7 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

foyer

noun
foy·​er ˈfȯi(-ə)r How to pronounce foyer (audio) ˈfȯi-ˌ(y)ā How to pronounce foyer (audio)
1
: a lobby especially in a theater
2
: an entrance hallway : vestibule

More from Merriam-Webster on foyer

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about foyer

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