How Did We Get the Term 'Living Room' for What Used to Be Called the Parlor?

The term 'living room' has a rich history that reflects the evolution of societal norms and household habits over time. This article explores the journey from the parlor to the living room, and why the language surrounding our domestic spaces has changed.

Historical Context

The word 'parlor': The word parlor or parlour, commonly used in UK, comes from Middle English "parlur," which itself derives from the Old French word "parler," meaning to talk. Originally, the parlor was the room reserved for conversation and socializing, particularly within families. It served as a place where family members could gather to discuss various matters, engage in intellectual discourse, and generally maintain family relationships.

Changing Social Norms

Shift in societal norms: As societal norms shifted in the early 20th century, particularly with the emergence of the middle class and changes in family dynamics, the concept of the parlor began to evolve. The rise of urbanization, mass immigration, and industrialization led to a significant change in how families lived and interacted with one another. The traditional parlor became less relevant as families became more mobile and less likely to remain in one place for extended periods.

Increased casualness: The mid-20th century brought about a greater emphasis on casual, comfortable living spaces. People began to prioritize spaces that were not only functional but also welcoming and comfortable. This shift in priorities led to the transformation of the parlor into a more versatile living area that could accommodate various activities, from family gatherings to watching television or playing games.

Introduction of Living Room

Concept of a casual living space: As residential architecture developed, architects and interior designers started to focus on creating living spaces that were more relaxed and inviting rather than formal. The term 'living room' gained popularity as it better described the function and atmosphere of the space. It served as a room where family members could come together for a variety of activities, such as having a meal, watching TV, or simply relaxing.

Cultural Influence

Transition from formal to casual: The term 'living room' reflects a cultural shift towards a more informal and relaxed lifestyle. Families no longer needed a formal parlor for socializing as they spent less time within the home engaged in traditional social activities. Instead, the living room became the central hub of domestic life, often featuring elements that made it easier to entertain and socialize, such as comfortable seating, a television, and spaces for hobbies.

Linguistic Shift

Why the change in language: The linguistic shift from 'parlor' to 'living room' is a testament to the changing nature of household habits. As people's lifestyles evolved, so did the language used to describe their environments. This transition reflects the changing dynamics of family life and the increasing emphasis on comfort and convenience in the home.

Grassroots change: The adoption of 'living room' as a term reflects a grassroots change that began in homes across the country. As individuals began to prioritize comfort and functionality, the language they used to describe their spaces adapted to reflect these new values. The term 'living room' became more widely used as it better captured the essence of the space.

Summary

In summary, the transition from 'parlor' to 'living room' is a reflection of the broader cultural and social changes that have occurred over the past century. As societal norms shifted and families began to prioritize comfort and convenience, the language we use to describe domestic spaces adapted accordingly. The living room emerged as a central hub of family life, reflecting the changing dynamics of modern households.

From a conceptual and linguistic perspective, this shift underscores the ongoing evolution of our understanding of home life and family interaction. As we continue to adapt to new lifestyles and technologies, it is likely that our language and terminology surrounding the home will continue to evolve as well.

Keywords: living room, parlor, household habits, linguistic evolution