Chariot Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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chariot
[ˈtʃærɪət ]
Definition
ancient vehicle
A chariot is a two-wheeled vehicle that is typically drawn by horses, used in ancient times for warfare, racing, and ceremonial purposes. Chariots were significant in various cultures, often associated with status and power, and played a crucial role in battles and competitive events.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The warriors rode into battle in their chariots.
- In ancient Greece, chariot racing was a popular sport.
- The museum displayed a beautifully preserved Roman chariot.
- Chariots were commonly used during the Egyptian empire.
Translations
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Origin of 'chariot'
The word 'chariot' comes from the Middle English word 'chariote', which originated from the Old French 'chariot', meaning 'a cart'. This, in turn, comes from the Latin 'carrus', a term for a two-wheeled vehicle. The use of chariots dates back to as early as the 3rd millennium BC, with evidence found in ancient Mesopotamia and the Indus Valley. Chariots played a vital role in the military tactics of tribes and empires across the world, particularly in ancient Rome, Greece, and Egypt. Over time, the design and function of chariots evolved, adapting to different cultures and technologies. By the medieval period, the use of chariots in warfare declined, but they remained a symbol of nobility and status.