Guildhall: meaning, definitions and examples
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guildhall
[ ˈgildˌhɔːl ]
place, community
A guildhall is a building used for meetings and ceremonies by a guild or a similar organization. Historically, these halls served as the center of commerce and community activities in medieval towns, often housing local government and serving as a venue for trade guilds. Many guildhalls are architectural landmarks, showcasing the style and craftsmanship of their time. They continue to play a role in community events and celebrations in some regions.
Synonyms
assembly hall, meeting house, town hall.
Examples of usage
- The craftsmen gathered at the guildhall to discuss their trade.
- The annual festival was held in the town's historic guildhall.
- She was invited to the meeting at the guildhall to represent her organization.
Translations
Translations of the word "guildhall" in other languages:
🇵🇹 casa da guilda
🇮🇳 गिल्ड हॉल
🇩🇪 Zunfthaus
🇮🇩 balai guild
🇺🇦 громадська рада
🇵🇱 gildia
🇯🇵 ギルドホール
🇫🇷 maison de la guilde
🇪🇸 salón de gremio
🇹🇷 gild salonu
🇰🇷 길드홀
🇸🇦 قاعة النقابة
🇨🇿 cechovní dům
🇸🇰 gildový dom
🇨🇳 公会厅
🇸🇮 gildijska hiša
🇮🇸 gildishús
🇰🇿 цех залы
🇬🇪 გილდიის დარბაზი
🇦🇿 gildiya binası
🇲🇽 salón de gremio
Etymology
The term 'guildhall' originates from the Middle English word 'gilde', derived from the Old Norse 'gild', meaning 'payment' or 'sacrifice', and associated with the late Roman and early medieval practice of the guilds. These were associations of artisans or merchants who controlled the practice of their craft in a particular town. In medieval Europe, these guilds formed in response to the growing complexity of commerce, and the guildhall became a place for meetings, decision-making, and the organization of trade. Over time, guildhalls evolved into community centers, often reflecting the architectural styles of their periods. Many guildhalls still stand today as historical landmarks, preserving the legacy of local trade practices and community organization.