Passage Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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passage
[ˈpæsɪdʒ ]
Definitions
security
A narrow way, typically having walls on either side, allowing access between buildings or to different rooms within a building.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- He walked down the dimly lit passage towards the exit.
- The secret passage allowed the spies to escape undetected.
literature
A section of a written work, typically constituting a subdivision of a chapter.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The passage describing the main character's childhood was particularly moving.
- The book had a passage that foreshadowed the ending.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Literature
- In literary terms, a 'passage' often refers to a specific excerpt or segment from a larger work, conveying critical themes or emotions.
- Famous passages in literature can become well-known quotes, capturing the essence of a story.
Architecture
- Architecturally, passages can refer to corridors or hallways that connect different rooms or spaces in a building.
- The design of passageways can influence traffic flow in public places like schools and museums.
Cultural Significance
- In various cultures, passages have significant symbolic meanings, representing transitions in life such as coming of age or moving to a new stage.
- Festivals often feature physical passages, like parades, symbolizing community transition and celebration.
Transportation
- In the context of travel, a passage can refer to a journey across water, with 'passage' used to describe the ticket needed for such trips.
- Historically, migrations and explorations often relied on passages across rivers or oceans, shaping cultural exchanges.
Origin of 'passage'
Main points about word origin
- This word comes from the Latin 'passus', which means 'to step or go'.
- It evolved into Old French as 'passage', which referred to both physical passages and written sections.
The word 'passage' has its origins in Middle English, derived from the Old French term 'passage', which in turn comes from the Latin word 'passagium'. It has been used in English since the 13th century. Over the centuries, 'passage' has evolved to encompass various meanings related to movement, transition, and traversal.
See also: bypass, impassable, impasse, overpass, passable, passably, passcode, passé, passenger, passer, passing, passingly, passion, passionately, passive, passkey, underpass, unpassability, unpassable.