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Bivouac Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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bivouac

[ˈbɪv.uˌæk ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

military

A temporary camp without tents or cover, used especially by soldiers or mountaineers.

Synonyms

campsite, encampment.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
bivouac

Mostly used in a military context or when talking about a temporary camp set up outdoors without tents, such as during hiking or climbing expeditions.

  • 'The soldiers set up a bivouac for the night
  • ' 'The climbers decided to bivouac halfway up the mountain
  • '
encampment

Typically used to describe a larger, more permanent or semi-permanent camp, often for groups such as nomads, refugees, or military troops.

  • 'The refugees set up an encampment on the outskirts of the city
  • ' 'The army's encampment was well-organized and secure
  • '
campsite

Commonly used to refer to designated areas where people can legally set up their tents, often in official campgrounds or parks.

  • 'We found a great campsite near the lake
  • ' 'Let's book a campsite at the national park for the weekend
  • '

Examples of usage

  • The soldiers set up a bivouac at the base of the mountain.
  • We spent the night in a bivouac during our trek.
Context #2 | Verb

military

To set up a bivouac.

Synonyms

camp out, encamp.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
bivouac

This term is used specifically to refer to a temporary camp, often without tents or much equipment, usually set up for one night on hiking, climbing, or military expeditions.

  • We decided to bivouac near the mountain summit before continuing our ascent the next day.
  • During the military exercise, the soldiers had to bivouac in the forest.
encamp

This verb is less commonly used in everyday speech and is often seen in historical, military, or formal writing. It refers to the act of setting up camp systematically.

  • The army was instructed to encamp on the outskirts of the city.
  • They encamped by the river for the duration of their journey.
camp out

This phrase is often used to describe spending the night outdoors, usually in a tent. It is commonly used in casual, recreational contexts.

  • We're going to camp out in the backyard tonight.
  • They love to camp out under the stars while traveling.

Examples of usage

  • The troops bivouacked for the night in the forest.
  • We will bivouac near the river.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Military History

  • Historically, bivouacking is associated with military operations, allowing troops to rest and regroup without formal encampments.
  • Famous battles often involved significant bivouacking strategies, as troops needed to set up temporary shelters to adapt to changing conditions.
  • During World War II, bivouac sites were crucial for mobile troops, often chosen for their strategic advantages.

Recreation and Outdoor Culture

  • Today, many campers and trekkers use bivouac techniques to minimize their impact on the environment while enjoying nature.
  • Bivouacs can often be spontaneous and improvised, providing flexibility for adventurers exploring the great outdoors.
  • Specialized bivouac bags and tarps have been developed to provide a lightweight alternative to traditional tents.

Literature

  • Bivouacs appear in works of literature, often symbolizing a moment of pause or reflection in a character's journey.
  • In Ernest Hemingway's war writings, bivouacs signify both rest and the harsh realities of military life.
  • Poets evoke the imagery of bivouacs to explore themes of transience and the human connection to nature.

Psychology

  • Sleeping in a bivouac setting can foster feelings of calm and connection to nature, beneficial for mental health.
  • Studies suggest that experiencing the outdoors through camping or bivouacking can reduce stress and increase overall happiness.
  • The simplicity of a bivouac can lead to a clearer mindset, promoting mindfulness and self-reflection.

Origin of 'bivouac'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the French term 'bivouac,' which was adopted into English in the late 19th century.
  • Originally, it referred to a temporary camp set up by soldiers during military maneuvers.
  • The French word itself likely derives from a combination of words meaning 'to watch over' in ancient roots.

The word 'bivouac' originated from the French 'bivouac', which came from the Swiss German dialect word 'beiwacht', meaning 'night guard'. The term was first used in English in the early 18th century to refer to a night watch or guard duty, and later evolved to denote a temporary camp without tents.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,836, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.