Longhouse: meaning, definitions and examples
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longhouse
[ lɔːŋhaʊs ]
traditional dwelling
A longhouse is a type of dwelling that was traditionally used by various Indigenous peoples in North America, particularly the Iroquois. It is characterized by its elongated shape, often accommodating multiple families under one roof. Longhouses are built using natural materials such as wood and bark, reflecting the local environment and available resources.
Synonyms
communal house, dwelling, shelter
Examples of usage
- The longhouse served as a community meeting space.
- Families lived together in a longhouse for support.
- Archaeologists uncovered the remains of ancient longhouses.
- The traditional longhouse design includes shared spaces.
Etymology
The term 'longhouse' derives from the combination of 'long' and 'house,' referring specifically to the architecture's elongated shape. This style of housing emerged among several Indigenous cultures, particularly in the Northeast of North America, during the pre-colonial period. Longhouses were not only residential spaces but also served as centers of social and political life, with room for several families to live in communal harmony. The construction methods evolved over centuries, utilizing locally available materials such as bark, wood, and other natural resources. The longhouse symbolizes a strong sense of community and cooperation, reflecting the values and traditions of the societies that built and inhabited them.