Mantel (noun)

1. A decorative shelf or facing, typically made of wood or stone, above a fireplace.
2. A decorative shelf or facing placed above a fireplace.

Origin:

From old french manteau, from latin mantellum ("cloak, mantle"), from mantus ("cloak"), from proto-indo-european *mén- ("to cover").

Examples:

1. He hung his stockings on the mantel.
2. The mantel was made of marble and had intricate carvings.
3. The mantel was decorated with candles and a vase of flowers.
4. The mantel clock was a family heirloom that had been passed down for generations.
5. The mantel was the focal point of the room, with a large mirror above it.