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Mausoleum Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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mausoleum

[ˌmɔːsəˈliːəm ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

historical building

A mausoleum is a large, impressive tomb or building that contains the burial chambers of a deceased person or a family. Mausoleums are often grand in design and serve as a final resting place for important individuals or families.

Synonyms

crypt, sepulchre, tomb.

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Word Description / Examples
mausoleum

A large, stately building housing a tomb or several tombs, often used for prominent individuals or families.

  • The royal family was buried in an elaborate mausoleum.
  • The mausoleum stood at the center of the cemetery, a testament to a bygone era.
tomb

A general term for a large vault, chamber, or grave for burying the dead.

  • The archaeologists discovered a tomb that had been undisturbed for centuries.
  • She visited her ancestors' tombs during the annual memorial.
sepulchre

A small room or monument, cut in rock or built of stone, where a dead person is laid or buried. This term often has a solemn and historical connotation.

  • The guide led us to the sepulchre of the ancient king.
  • Throughout history, revered leaders were often laid to rest in sepulchres.
crypt

An underground room or vault beneath a church, used as a chapel or burial place.

  • The ancient church had a crypt where many were laid to rest.
  • Explorers found hidden passages leading to an old crypt beneath the cathedral.

Examples of usage

  • The ancient Egyptians built elaborate mausoleums to house the bodies of their pharaohs.
  • The Taj Mahal in India is considered one of the most beautiful mausoleums in the world.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The term 'mausoleum' comes from Mausolus, a Persian satrap; his tomb became famous for its size and beauty, giving a name to similar structures.
  • The Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, built for Mausolus in the 4th century BCE, is one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
  • Many cultures designed grand mausoleums to honor their rulers and important figures, reflecting the desire for lasting legacy.

Architecture

  • Mausoleums often feature large domes and intricate carvings, showcasing the artistry and craftsmanship of their builders.
  • The Taj Mahal in India, a mausoleum built for Mumtaz Mahal, is a stunning example of Mughal architecture, combining beauty with deep emotional significance.
  • Architectural styles of mausoleums vary greatly across the world, from the simple to the overly ornate, reflecting local customs and beliefs.

Cultural Significance

  • Throughout history, mausoleums have served not just as tombs but also as symbols of power, love, and remembrance in different societies.
  • In Ancient Egypt, pharaohs were often entombed in elaborate structures like pyramids, which served as mausoleums with great religious significance.
  • Different religions view mausoleums in various ways; for some, they represent a final resting place, while for others, they are a place of continued reverence.

Pop Culture

  • Mausoleums often appear in films and literature as mysterious places, symbolizing secrets, history, and connections to the past.
  • Famous mausoleums, such as the one for Edgar Allan Poe, inspire numerous stories and legends, attracting visitors and historians alike.
  • In video games and movies, characters sometimes encounter mausoleums as places of exploration or excitement, blending history with adventure.

Psychology

  • The existence of mausoleums and tombs illustrates human desires to cope with death and remember loved ones in meaningful ways.
  • Visiting mausoleums can evoke feelings of reflection and loss, prompting individuals to consider their mortality and the legacies they leave behind.
  • The grandeur of mausoleums often reflects societal values regarding death, wealth, and remembrance, impacting how communities grieve.

Origin of 'mausoleum'

The word 'mausoleum' originates from the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, a tomb built in the 4th century BC for Mausolus, a satrap in the Persian Empire. The structure was known for its grandeur and architectural beauty, and over time, the term 'mausoleum' came to be used more broadly to refer to any elaborate tomb or burial structure.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,665, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.