mantel

American  

[man-tl] / ˈmæn tl /

Or mantle

noun

1. a construction framing the opening of a fireplace and usually covering part of the chimney breast in a more or less decorative manner.

2. Also called mantelshelf.  a shelf above a fireplace opening.

---

mantel British  

/ ˈmæntəl /

noun

1. a wooden or stone frame around the opening of a fireplace, together with its decorative facing

2. Also called: mantel shelf.  a shelf above this frame

---

Usage

What does mantel mean? A mantel is the frame around the opening of a fireplace. Mantel also commonly refers to a shelf above the fireplace (which may or may not be attached to the other kind of mantel). This shelf can also be called a mantelshelf. Both senses of mantel can also be spelled mantle. (The word mantle has many other meanings.)Synonyms for mantel include mantlepiece, mantelboard, and chimneypiece. Example: This mantel will need to be replaced since the wood is rotting, but the fireplace itself looks solid.

Etymology

Origin of mantel

1480–90; earlier mantell mantelet; variant of mantle

Explanation

A mantel is a shelf that sticks out just above a fireplace. People often put trophies and pictures on their mantel. If your house has a fireplace, chances are you also have a mantel. A mantel is a handy place to display anything you like looking at or want to show off to visitors. Trophies and prizes are common things to find on a mantel, as are pictures of family and friends. If you want people to see something, put it on the mantel.

Example Sentences

Both Mantel and Oyler contend that the homelessness crisis stems from a housing shortage and that new housing developments will be the most effective measure to get people off the streets.

From Los Angeles Times • May 1, 2026

Mantel, 33, has worked on a handful of political campaigns, according to his campaign website, including Carolyn Ramsay’s unsuccessful campaign for the 4th District council seat in 2015.

From Los Angeles Times • May 1, 2026

A new literary prize in memory of author Dame Hilary Mantel has been set up to champion new writers.

From BBC • Sep. 22, 2025

"It was a normal family, but it was wild and it was just crazy," Ms Mantel told the BBC.

From BBC • Jul. 26, 2025

Ruth Fielding was not naturally of a suspicious disposition; but the honesty of Mrs. Mantel and the real interest of that woman in the cause were still keenly questioned in Ruth’s mind.

From Ruth Fielding In the Red Cross Doing Her Best For Uncle Sam by Emerson, Alice B.

Related Words

• mantelpiece