Jamb vs. Reveal: What's the Difference?
Edited by Aimie Carlson || By Janet White || Published on November 14, 2023
A jamb is the vertical side of a door or window frame. Reveal is the side of an opening for a window or door between the frame and the outer surface or the act of making something known.
Key Differences
A jamb refers to the vertical side parts of a door or window frame, providing structural support. On the contrary, reveal has a dual meaning; architecturally, it denotes the side of an opening for a window or door between the frame and the outer surface. Moreover, in general context, to reveal means to disclose or make something known.
While jamb is a specific term mostly used in architecture and construction, reveal has a broader usage in the English language. The reveal can be both a noun, referring to a part of a structure, and a verb, indicating the action of showing or disclosing something.
Jambs play an essential role in the construction and installation of doors and windows, ensuring they sit correctly within a structure. On the other hand, reveal as an architectural term might describe how much of a window or door is visible, while as a verb, it's about disclosure and presentation.
When discussing door or window installation, one might refer to both jamb and reveal. The jamb being the structural component, and the reveal discussing the aesthetic and functional aspects of how the window or door appears within its setting. In everyday conversation, however, reveal is more likely to be understood as disclosing something hidden.
Comparison Chart
Definition
Vertical side of a door or window frame.
Side of an opening or the act of disclosing.
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Usage
Architectural and construction contexts.
Broad usage, both architecturally and generally.
Part of Speech
Noun
Both noun and verb.
Field of Application
Door and window structures.
Architectural design and everyday language.
Etymology
From French "jambe" meaning "leg."
From Latin "revelare" meaning "unveil."
Jamb and Reveal Definitions
Jamb
Vertical side of a door or window frame.
The door jamb was painted a bright blue.
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Reveal
The side of an opening for a window or door between the frame and the outer surface.
The reveal of the window was decorated with tiles.
Jamb
Side posts of a doorway.
The old house had intricately carved jambs.
Reveal
The act of displaying or showing something.
The big reveal at the end of the movie was unexpected.
Jamb
Upright surface forming the side of an opening.
She leaned against the jamb, waiting for him to arrive.
Reveal
To uncover or bring to light.
The magician was about to reveal his final trick.
Jamb
Structural support for doors or windows.
The carpenter checked the jamb for any damages.
Reveal
To make known or disclose.
She was hesitant to reveal her secret.
Jamb
The side piece of a frame, especially for a door or window.
The jamb needed replacement after years of wear and tear.
Reveal
To make known (something concealed or unknown)
She revealed that she was pregnant. The study revealed the toxic effects of the pollutant.
Jamb
One of a pair of vertical posts or pieces that together form the sides of an opening, as for a door, window, or fireplace.
Reveal
To cause to be seen; show
The curtains parted, revealing a ballerina. The x-ray revealed a broken bone.
Jamb
A projecting mass or columnar part.
Reveal
To make known by supernatural or divine means
"For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven" (Romans 1:18).
Jamb
Either of the vertical components that form the side of an opening in a wall, such as that of a door frame, window frame, or fireplace.
Reveal
The making known of an important, secret, or salient occurrence, such as the revealing of a major development, plot twist, or visual effect in a movie
"Seeing [the Wiz] in human form in the first act diminishes the power of the reveal in the second" (Bob Verini).
Jamb
(mining) Any thick mass of rock that prevents miners from following the lode or vein.
Reveal
The part of the side of a window or door opening that is between the outer surface of a wall and the window or door frame.
Jamb
Synonym of jambeau.
Reveal
The whole side of such an opening; the jamb.
Jamb
(transitive) To fix or attach a jamb to.
Reveal
The framework of a motor vehicle window.
Jamb
The vertical side of any opening, as a door or fireplace; hence, less properly, any narrow vertical surface of wall, as the of a chimney-breast or of a pier, as distinguished from its face.
Reveal
The outer side of a window or door frame.
Jamb
Any thick mass of rock which prevents miners from following the lode or vein.
Reveal
A revelation; an uncovering of what was hidden in the scene or story.
The comedian had been telling us about his sleep being disturbed by noise. Then came the reveal: he was sleeping on a bed in a department store.
Jamb
See Jambes.
Reveal
(transitive) To uncover; to show and display that which was hidden.
Jamb
Upright consisting of a vertical side member of a door or window frame
Reveal
(transitive) To communicate that which could not be known or discovered without divine or supernatural instruction.
Reveal
To make known (that which has been concealed or kept secret); to unveil; to disclose; to show.
Light was the wound, the prince's care unknown,She might not, would not, yet reveal her own.
Reveal
Specifically, to communicate (that which could not be known or discovered without divine or supernatural instruction or agency).
Reveal
A revealing; a disclosure.
Reveal
The side of an opening for a window, doorway, or the like, between the door frame or window frame and the outer surface of the wall; or, where the opening is not filled with a door, etc., the whole thickness of the wall; the jamb.
Reveal
Make visible;
Summer brings out bright clothes
He brings out the best in her
The newspaper uncovered the President's illegal dealings
Reveal
Make known to the public information that was previously known only to a few people or that was meant to be kept a secret;
The auction house would not disclose the price at which the van Gogh had sold
The actress won't reveal how old she is
Bring out the truth
He broke the news to her
Reveal
Make clear and visible;
The article revealed the policies of the government
Reveal
Disclose directly or through prophets;
God rarely reveal his plans for Mankind
Reveal
To allow something to be seen.
He pulled back the curtain to reveal the new painting.
FAQs
What does it mean to reveal a secret?
It means to disclose or make the secret known.
Is the jamb visible when a door is closed?
Generally, the jamb is covered by the door when closed, but the outer parts might still be visible.
Can jamb be used as a verb?
Typically, jamb is used as a noun. The verb form, "jambing", is less common and refers to the act of fitting into a jamb.
Can a jamb be decorative?
Yes, jambs can be plain or intricately designed and decorative, depending on architectural style.
How is reveal used in a sentence?
As a verb: "She will reveal the news tomorrow." As a noun: "The window's reveal was intricately designed."
Is jamb an English word?
Yes, jamb is an English word derived from the French "jambe," meaning "leg."
What is a jamb in architecture?
A jamb is the vertical side of a door or window frame.
Are jambs only associated with doors?
No, jambs can be associated with both doors and windows.
How does reveal relate to movies?
In movies, a reveal can refer to a pivotal moment where crucial information or a twist is disclosed.
How is reveal used in architecture?
In architecture, a reveal is the side of an opening for a window or door between the frame and the outer surface.
Can reveal refer to appearance?
Yes, for instance, a dress might reveal a person's shoulders, meaning it shows them.
How does a reveal relate to a surprise?
A reveal can be the moment when a surprise is made known or shown.
Can reveal be used in the context of emotions?
Yes, one can reveal emotions, meaning to show or express them openly.
What materials are jambs typically made of?
Jambs can be made of wood, metal, or other sturdy materials depending on the type and purpose of the door or window.
Can reveal be a noun?
Yes, reveal can be both a verb (to show or disclose) and a noun (the side of an opening or the act of revealing).
Can windows have jambs?
Yes, windows have jambs which are the vertical sides of the window frame.
How thick is a typical door jamb?
The thickness can vary, but residential door jambs in the U.S. are often around 4.5 to 5.5 inches thick.
Are jambs essential for the installation of doors?
Yes, jambs provide the structural support needed for the correct functioning and positioning of doors.
What's the relationship between a reveal and a hint?
While a hint suggests or alludes to something, a reveal makes it known or displays it openly.
What's the opposite of reveal?
The opposite of reveal could be "conceal" or "hide."
About Author
Written by
Janet WhiteJanet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
Edited by
Aimie CarlsonAimie Carlson, holding a master's degree in English literature, is a fervent English language enthusiast. She lends her writing talents to Difference Wiki, a prominent website that specializes in comparisons, offering readers insightful analyses that both captivate and inform.
