Cellar Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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cellar

[ˈsɛlər ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

wine storage

A room or set of rooms below ground level in a building, typically used for storing wine or other provisions.

Synonyms

basement, storage room, vault.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
cellar	Used to describe a space below a house typically used to store wine or food, often damp or dark. He went down to the cellar to fetch a bottle of wine The onions are stored in the cellar for the winter
basement	Refers to the floor of a building that is partly or completely below ground level, often used for various purposes including living spaces, storage, or laundry. The basement has been converted into a cozy guest room They keep their old furniture in the basement
vault	Typically used to refer to a secure room or compartment used to store valuable items, often found in banks or financial institutions. The gold was kept in a heavily guarded vault They stored important documents in a fireproof vault
storage room	Used to describe a designated room or area in a building specifically used to store items; typically more organized and accessible. She put the holiday decorations in the storage room The office has a storage room for supplies

Examples of usage

The wine cellar was filled with vintage bottles.
He stored his homemade preserves in the cellar.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

house

An underground room or part of a building, typically beneath the first floor.

Synonyms

basement, subterranean room, underground chamber.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
cellar	Typically used to refer to an underground room used for storing wine, food, or other items. Often implies a smaller, more specific use compared to 'basement'. They keep their wine collection in the cellar The cellar is stocked with canned goods for emergencies
basement	Used for a lower level of a building, either partially or fully underground, mainly intended for general storage, living space, or other functional use. More broad compared to 'cellar'. The children play in the basement during the winter The basement is fully furnished with a TV and couches
subterranean room	A formal or literary term for any room located below the ground level. It can be used for a wide range of purposes but is less commonly used in everyday speech. The ancient castle had a hidden subterranean room used for meetings Architects designed a subterranean room for better insulation and temperature control
underground chamber	Usually used to refer to a space below ground level in a more dramatic or mysterious context, such as in historical or fantasy settings. The explorers discovered an underground chamber filled with ancient artifacts Legends spoke of an underground chamber where treasures were hidden

Examples of usage

The cellar was dark and damp.
She heard strange noises coming from the cellar.

Translations

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

Origin of 'cellar'

The word 'cellar' originated from the Old French word 'cellier', which meant 'storeroom' or 'pantry'. It has been used in English since the 13th century to refer to an underground storage area. Cellars were traditionally used for storing food, wine, and other provisions to keep them cool and fresh. Over time, cellars have become associated with wine storage and are commonly found in homes, restaurants, and wineries.

See also: cell, cellphone, cells, cellular, cellularly.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,181 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.

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9178 jewelry
9179 quarry
9180 parting
9181 cellar
9182 cheer
9183 escort
9184 predicting
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