창문
changmun
/tɕʰaŋ.mun/
Definition
A window in a wall or vehicle that lets in light and air.
Example
창문을 열면 신선한 바람이 들어와요.
Show translation
When you open the window, fresh air comes in.
Etymology
A compound of the Sino-Korean morphemes 窓 (창, *chang*) meaning "window" and 門 (문, *mun*) meaning "door/gate." Both characters entered Korean through Classical Chinese, reflecting the ancient architectural idea that windows and doors were related openings in a building's wall.
Cultural note
In Korean homes — especially traditional *hanok* (한옥) — windows were made with wooden lattice frames covered in translucent *hanji* (한지) paper rather than glass, softening incoming light beautifully. The phrase 창문을 열다 (to open the window) also appears frequently in song lyrics and poetry as a metaphor for welcoming new possibilities or emotions.