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Catacomb: meaning, definitions and examples

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catacomb

 

[ ˈkætəˌkoʊm ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

burial site

A catacomb is an underground cemetery consisting of labyrinthine passages and chambers. They were often used for the burial of Christian martyrs and were a significant aspect of early Christian art and culture.

Synonyms

crypt, grave, mausoleum, tomb

Examples of usage

  • The archaeologists discovered ancient catacombs beneath the city.
  • Tourists explored the eerie catacombs in search of history.
  • Many catacombs are filled with intricate carvings and murals.

Translations

Translations of the word "catacomb" in other languages:

🇵🇹 catacumba

🇮🇳 कटाकॉम्ब

🇩🇪 Katakombe

🇮🇩 katakombe

🇺🇦 катакомба

🇵🇱 katakumby

🇯🇵 カタコンベ

🇫🇷 catacombe

🇪🇸 catacumba

🇹🇷 katakom

🇰🇷 카타콤

🇸🇦 الكاتاكومب

🇨🇿 katakomby

🇸🇰 katakomby

🇨🇳 地下墓穴

🇸🇮 katakombe

🇮🇸 katakombur

🇰🇿 катакомба

🇬🇪 კატაკომბი

🇦🇿 katakomb

🇲🇽 catacumba

Etymology

The word 'catacomb' comes from the Late Latin 'catacumbae', which refers to a subterranean cemetery, likely derived from the Greek 'kata', meaning 'down', and 'kumbas', meaning 'cavity' or 'pit'. This etymology reflects the structure of the catacombs as they are located below ground level. The use of catacombs dates back to the early days of Christianity in the 2nd century AD when Christians faced persecution and needed secret places to bury their dead. Catacombs became important places of worship and commemoration for the early Christians. Over time, they evolved into significant archaeological sites, revealing valuable insights into ancient burial practices, art, and the socio-religious context of the time. In modern times, many famous catacombs, such as those in Rome and Paris, attract visitors interested in their history and the mysteries they hold.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #34,438 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.