Maniglia vs. pomello
The Italian words 'maniglia' and 'pomello' both refer to parts of a door used for opening and closing, but they have distinct differences in their specific meanings and usage.
Maniglia
'Maniglia' typically refers to a handle or lever-style mechanism on a door, often elongated and graspable with the entire hand.
La maniglia della porta è in ottone.
(The door handle is made of brass.)
Tira la maniglia verso il basso per aprire la porta.
(Pull the handle downwards to open the door.)
La maniglia del frigorifero è rotta.
(The refrigerator handle is broken.)
Pomello
'Pomello' usually describes a round or spherical knob, typically smaller and operated with just a few fingers or the palm of the hand.
Gira il pomello per aprire l'armadio.
(Turn the knob to open the wardrobe.)
Il pomello della porta del bagno è decorato.
(The bathroom door knob is decorated.)
Ho sostituito il vecchio pomello con uno nuovo.
(I replaced the old knob with a new one.)
Summary
While both 'maniglia' and 'pomello' are used for opening doors, 'maniglia' typically refers to a larger, lever-style handle that you grasp with your whole hand, whereas 'pomello' is usually a smaller, round knob that you turn with your fingers or palm. 'Maniglia' is more common on main doors, while 'pomello' is often found on cabinets, drawers, or smaller doors.