mantle or mantel?

Which is correct? Since the advent of flat-panel televisions, it’s becoming more common to see a TV over the _______ than a painting or a mirror.a. mantle b. mantel

Answer: b

A mantel is the shelf above the fireplace. A mantle is a coat or cloak; that word is often used metaphorically, to say, for example, that an elected official has assumed the mantle of office. Once upon a time, it referred to ceremonial robes. A mantel of office, on the other hand, would be quite awkward to wear.

The Word Blog covers mantel vs. mantel.

Follow me on Twitter @tao_of_grammar