Pyramid: meaning, definitions and examples

Use when referring to ancient massive structures, often with a square base and four triangular sides, built as tombs or temples, especially in Egypt.

• The Great Pyramid of Giza is one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
• Many people visit Egypt to see the pyramids.

Used to denote a grave or burial chamber, generally underground, where the dead are placed. Can refer to both simple and elaborate burial sites.

• Archaeologists discovered an ancient tomb filled with treasures.
• The royal tomb was sealed centuries ago.

Use for a structure erected to commemorate a person, event, or historical period. These are typically erected in public spaces and can vary greatly in size and form.

• The Lincoln Memorial is a prominent monument in Washington D.C.
• New monuments are often unveiled on national holidays.

Used for an elaborate, above-ground tomb or a large and impressive building housing such tombs. Often found in cemeteries or as memorials.

• The Taj Mahal is an iconic mausoleum in India.
• They built a mausoleum to honor their ancestors.

Ideal for discussing ancient Egyptian structures or metaphorically describing systems with a wide base and narrow top.

• The Great Pyramid of Giza is one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
• The company's organizational structure resembles a pyramid with a few executives at the top and a large number of employees at the bottom.

Best used when describing an organized system where people or things are ranked one above the other.

• In many businesses, there is a clear hierarchy, from entry-level positions to senior management.
• The hierarchy of the animal kingdom is based on evolutionary traits.

Use when describing specific organizational forms or structures that have characteristics similar to a physical pyramid.

• The corporation adopted a pyramidal structure to clearly define roles and responsibilities.
• In a pyramidal structure, decision-making authority is mainly concentrated at the top.