Threshold

Definition

Threshold primarily refers to the starting point of an experience, event, or venture. It can also denote the magnitude or intensity that must be exceeded for a certain reaction or phenomenon to occur or be manifested.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈθrɛʃˌhoʊld/
• Respelling: THRESH-hohld (with "THRESH" as in "fresh" and "hohld" rhyming with "hold")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈθrɛʃhəʊld/
• Respelling: THRESH-hohld (similar to American English, with "THRESH" as in "fresh" and "hohld" like in "hold")

In both dialects, "threshold" is pronounced with the primary stress on the first syllable, "THRESH," which sounds like "fresh." The second syllable, "hohld," rhymes with "hold." The pronunciation of "threshold" is consistent between American and British English.

Etymology

The word "threshold" is derived from Old English "þrescold", which means "the point of entering".

Derivatives

• Thresholding
• Overthreshold
• Underthreshold
• Thresholded
• Subthreshold

Synonyms

• Doorway
• Entrance
• Onset

Antonyms

• Conclusion
• Termination
• Exit

Usage

• In architecture, the "threshold" typically refers to the bottom of a doorway, which must be crossed to enter a building or room.
• In a broader sense, it can mean the beginning or start of an action, event, or process.

Related Terms

• Gateway
• Commencement
• Limit

Detailed Definition

Noun

• Doorway Base: The strip of wood or stone at the bottom of a doorway, which is crossed to enter a building or room.
• Example: Make sure to step over the threshold carefully.

• Start Point: The beginning or start of an action, event, or process.
• Example: We are on the threshold of a new era.

• Limiting Value: The magnitude or intensity that must be exceeded for a particular reaction, phenomenon, result, or condition to occur or be manifested.
• Example: The pain threshold varies among individuals.