Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Megalith Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ—ฟ
Add to dictionary

megalith

[หˆmษ›ษกษ™หŒlษชฮธ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

ancient structures

A megalith is a large stone that has been used to construct a prehistoric structure or monument. These monumental stones are often associated with ancient civilizations and are frequently used in various forms of burial sites, religious practices, or ceremonial purposes. Megaliths are typically categorized based on their size and arrangement, which can range from single upright stones to elaborate stone circles. Examples include Stonehenge in England and the dolmens found in various cultures. The study of megaliths provides insight into the social and cultural practices of early societies.

Synonyms

boulder, monolith, stone monument.

Examples of usage

  • Stonehenge is a famous megalith.
  • The megaliths of Carnac attract many tourists.
  • Archaeologists study megaliths to learn about ancient cultures.
  • Megaliths often serve as burial sites.
  • Many megaliths are aligned with celestial events.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Archaeology

  • Many megaliths were used in ancient burial sites, often forming tombs or ceremonial cairns.
  • The famous Stonehenge in England is one of the most recognized examples of a megalithic structure.
  • Megaliths are found all over the world, indicating a widespread ancient culture of monumental construction.

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, megaliths were believed to have spiritual significance, marking important places or events.
  • Some megalithic sites align with celestial bodies, suggesting their use for astronomical observations.

History

  • The use of megaliths dates back to the Neolithic period, which started around 10,000 BCE.
  • These structures often preceded metal tools and complex societies, showcasing the ingenuity of early humans.

Pop Culture

  • Megaliths appear in various movies and novels, frequently associated with ancient mysteries or alien theories.
  • Video games often feature megalithic stones as elements of fantasy landscapes, drawing on their mysterious nature.

Origin of 'megalith'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from Greek, where 'mega' means large and 'lithos' means stone.
  • The term was first used in the late 19th century to describe these monumental structures.

The term 'megalith' is derived from the Greek words 'mega' meaning 'great' and 'lithos' meaning 'stone'. The use of megalithic structures dates back to prehistoric times, with evidence of their existence found in various parts of the world, including Europe, Asia, and Africa. Megaliths are believed to have served multiple purposes, including marking territories, serving as burial markers, and facilitating rituals connected to agricultural cycles or celestial events. The construction of these structures required significant labor and organization, indicating that early human societies had complex social structures and a deep connection to their environment. As archaeological interest in megaliths grew in the 19th and 20th centuries, numerous sites were excavated and studied, revealing much about the ancient peoples who constructed these enduring monuments. Today, megaliths are valued not only for their historical significance but also as symbols of human ingenuity and the early quest for meaning in life's mysteries.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #40,249, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.