Chamber: meaning, definitions and examples

Can also refer to a small, enclosed space within a machine or body.

• The combustion chamber of the engine needs to be cleaned
• The heart has four chambers

A general term for any enclosed space within a building that has its own walls and often a door.

• She went to her room to study
• The living room was bright and spacious

Used to describe a separated section of a larger space, often in transportation or storage contexts.

• He kept his wallet in a secret compartment in his suitcase
• The train has a first-class compartment

Refers to an area surrounded by barriers or walls, often used for confining animals or objects.

• The zoo has a large enclosure for the lions
• The documents are kept in a secure enclosure

Typically used to refer to a large room, especially one where a legislative or judicial body meets or a private room in a house.

• The king held a meeting in the royal chamber
• The legislative chamber was packed with lawmakers

Used to describe a group of people gathered together for a common purpose, often for legislative or formal meetings.

• The general assembly of the United Nations convened in New York
• The school held an assembly to discuss the new rules

Refers specifically to the room in which a court of law is held.

• The defendant nervously entered the courtroom
• The trial took place in a grand, historic courtroom

Used to describe an organized body of people with the authority to make laws, typically a governing body of a country or state.

• The new bill was passed by the state legislature
• The legislature debated for hours before reaching a decision

Typically used to describe a room, especially a private or enclosed one. It can also refer to a natural or man-made enclosed space, such as a chamber in the heart or an underground cavern.

• The king met his advisors in his private chamber
• The scientists discovered a new chamber in the cave system

Refers to surrounding or closing off an area or object. This can apply to both physical boundaries (like fences) and to the act of including something inside another, like a document in an envelope.

• The garden was enclosed by a tall fence to keep out the deer
• He enclosed a check with the letter he sent

Used to describe restricting someone or something within certain limits or boundaries. This word often has a negative connotation when it relates to limiting freedom.

• The prisoner was confined to his cell for 23 hours a day
• The plant's growth was confined by the small pot

Describes enclosing or covering something completely, often in a protective layer or container. This is usually done to protect the item inside.

• The precious artifact was encased in glass to prevent damage
• The phone was encased in a rugged case to protect it from drops