grille

Everyday

1. A grid or screen of metal bars or wires across a window, door, opening or vent, to protect it or let air through. tree →
2. The metal grid at the front of a car that lets air reach the engine. tree →

In the lessons

In everyday life you see grilles on shop windows, drains, air vents, speakers and the fronts of cars; in old buildings a small grille in a door lets people look or talk through. Safety: never poke fingers or sticks through a grille.

Examples

• The bank window had a strong metal grille. tree →
• Air comes out of the grille in the ceiling. tree →
• The car's shiny grille had a badge in the middle. tree →
• The nun spoke to visitors through a grille. tree →
• Leaves blocked the drain grille. tree →
• The speaker's grille protects the parts inside. tree →

Note

Countable. Homophone: «grill» (to cook under heat; the part of an oven). Grille with an -e is the screen of bars.