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Obelisk Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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obelisk

[ˈɒbəlɪsk ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

monumental architecture

An obelisk is a tall, four-sided, narrow tapering monument which ends in a pyramid-like shape at the top. Historically, obelisks were often erected in pairs at the entrances of temples.

Synonyms

monument, pillar, shaft.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
obelisk

An obelisk is a tall, four-sided, narrow tapering monument which ends in a pyramid-like shape at the top. Often used to commemorate historical events or figures, and typically made from stone.

  • The Washington Monument is a famous obelisk in the United States
monument

A monument is a structure created to commemorate a person, event, or historical period. It can take many forms, including statues, buildings, or other types of structures.

  • The Lincoln Memorial is a prominent monument in Washington, D
  • C
pillar

A pillar is a tall vertical structure used for support or decoration. It is typically cylindrical and can be found in buildings or as freestanding structures.

  • The ancient Greek temple ruins are famous for their Doric pillars
shaft

A shaft usually refers to a long, narrow, cylindrical part of a structure, often used for functional purposes such as support or housing machinery. It can also describe something similar to an obelisk but without the need for a historical context.

  • The elevator shaft in the building runs from the ground floor to the top floor

Examples of usage

  • The ancient Egyptians built obelisks to honor their pharaohs.
  • The Washington Monument in Washington D.C. is a famous obelisk.
Context #2 | Noun

printing

In printing, an obelisk is a symbol consisting of a short horizontal line with a dot above and below, used to mark references or footnotes.

Synonyms

dagger, reference mark.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
obelisk

A tall, four-sided, narrow tapering monument which ends in a pyramid-like shape at the top. Usually made of stone, it is often used in historical or ceremonial contexts.

  • The ancient Egyptians built an obelisk to honor the sun god Ra.
  • We visited the Washington Monument, an obelisk, during our trip to D.C.
dagger

A short knife with a pointed and edged blade, used as a weapon. It also represents a symbol or mark, often in typography, for indicating a footnote.

  • The assassin was armed with a sharp dagger.
  • In the book, an asterisk is used for main notes and a dagger for additional references.
reference mark

A symbol used in writing and printing to indicate a footnote or an endnote. Common reference marks include the asterisk (*), the dagger (†), and the double dagger (‡).

  • The reference mark at the end of the sentence directs readers to the footnote for more information.
  • Please check the reference marks throughout the article for additional details and sources.

Examples of usage

  • The obelisk is commonly used in academic writing to indicate a footnote or reference.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The oldest known obelisks date back to the time of Pharaohs in ancient Egypt, mainly used to honor the sun god Ra.
  • One of the most famous obelisks is the Lateran Obelisk in Rome, which was originally erected in Heliopolis, Egypt.

Cultural Significance

  • Obelisks often symbolized divine protection and were believed to have magical powers.
  • In modern culture, several cities, including Washington D.C. and Paris, have iconic obelisks that commemorate important historical events.

Architecture

  • Constructed from a single block of stone, obelisks often have hieroglyphs inscribed along their sides.
  • These structures are usually erected in pairs at the entrances of temples in ancient Egyptian architecture.

Modern Usage

  • Contemporary architecture sometimes incorporates obelisk shapes in memorials and towers to pay homage to the past.
  • The term 'obelisk' also appears in literature and art, representing strength and permanence.

Origin of 'obelisk'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Greek 'obeliskos', meaning 'little spit', which refers to its pointed shape.
  • In ancient Egyptian, the term for obelisk was 'tekhenu', which translates to 'to pierce the sky'.

The word 'obelisk' originated from the Greek word 'obeliskos', meaning 'small spit' or 'skewer'. Obelisks were originally created by the ancient Egyptians as sacred monuments and symbols of the sun god Ra. Over time, obelisks became popular architectural features in various cultures and civilizations, symbolizing power, stability, and eternity.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,687, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.