1. A heavy curtain that is hanging over or in a doorway to replace the door or for decoration: The doorway between the living room and the hallway where Pamela's mother is living has a portière instead of a door.

A portiere is often made of some heavy material; such as, velvet, and it is usually put on a brass rod so it can be moved occasionally and be opened and closed like a door.

2. Etymology: derived from the French word porte, "door".