WordGarden.ioentrance
A2Pronunciation
UK
- /ˈɛn.trəns/noun
US
- /ˈɛntrəns/
Meanings
Noun
a doorway, gate, or other place where people enter
the act, right, or opportunity of entering or being admitted
a fee paid to enter a place or event
More meaningsFewer meanings
a person's arrival into view, especially in a noticeable or dramatic way
Verb
to captivate someone and hold their attention completely
to put someone into a trance or hypnotic state
Beyond the definition
An entrance is not just a door; it is the way into something: a building, a forest, or even a new phase of life. Think of Alice falling down the rabbit hole; that was her way into Wonderland. It can be physical, like the grand entrance to a castle, or linked to being allowed in, like an entrance exam or an entrance ticket for a show.
The word suggests "entering" and often carries the idea of a first impression, since a well-designed entrance sets the tone for what lies inside. It also has a second life as a verb. When the stress falls on the second syllable, it means to charm someone completely or fill them with wonder. A beautiful melody, for example, might entrance a listener.
The word "entrance" most commonly refers to a way into a place or an opening through which someone can enter: a building, a room, a city, or even a country. Think of the imposing gates of an ancient fortress or the small front space leading into a cottage. "She paused at the entrance to the forest, taking a deep breath before venturing in."
But "entrance" is more than just a physical opening. It can also mean the act of allowing someone to enter. For example: "The guard checked my ticket before granting me entrance." It can also refer to the permission or right to be somewhere: "She had an entrance pass for the exclusive party." In a broader sense, it can describe the beginning of something new, such as a career, a relationship, or a new social world. "His first novel marked his entrance into the world of published authors."
Interestingly, "entrance" is also a heteronym, meaning it has a second definition and pronunciation. As a verb (pronounced en-TRANCE), it means to captivate someone completely or fill them with delight. This sense is related to the idea of being drawn into a trance by something beautiful or mysterious. "The magician's performance entranced the audience."
So, whether it's a doorway, a formal permission, a new beginning, or a captivating experience—the word "entrance" always points toward the act of going in and the discovery of what awaits beyond the threshold.
Examples
- 1
Station meeting
Let's meet at the main entrance to the station.
- 2
Delivery access
Delivery drivers should use the side entrance at the back of the store.
- 3
Security
A security guard was standing by the entrance when we arrived.
- 4
Admission cost
The castle charges a small entrance fee.
- Phraseentrance fee
money you pay to go in
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Arrival style
She made a quiet entrance and sat down in the back row.
- Phrasemake an entrance
arrive or appear, often in a noticeable way
- 6
Strong fascination
The children were entranced by the magician's tricks.
- Patternbe entranced by + person/thing
be filled with wonder and attention
- 7
Captivating voice
Her voice can entrance a whole room.
See also
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- entrancenounverb
Forms
- entrancespluralnounverb
- entrancedpast tenseverbnoun
- entrancing-ing formverbnoun