Quarry Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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quarry
[ˈkwɒri ]
Definitions
mining
A place, typically a large, deep pit, from which stone or other materials are or have been extracted.
Synonyms
excavation, mine, pit.
Examples of usage
- The workers descended into the quarry with their tools.
- The quarry was abandoned many years ago.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Historical Use
- In ancient Egypt, large quarries were essential for obtaining limestone and granite to build pyramids.
- During the Roman Empire, stone extraction from quarries was a key factor in constructing monumental architecture, like the Colosseum.
- Medieval builders often used local quarries for the stones needed to build castles and cathedrals.
Environmental Impact
- Quarrying can drastically change landscapes, impacting local ecosystems and wildlife habitats.
- Post-quarry landscapes often require restoration to prevent erosion and to reintegrate with nature.
- Some quarries have been transformed into lakes and recreational areas after mining operations ceased.
Cultural References
- In literature, quarries are often used as settings for suspenseful events or as symbols of deeper struggles.
- Quarries have appeared in several films as a backdrop for dramatic confrontations or discoveries.
- Famous artists, like Carravagio, depicted quarry scenes to highlight the raw beauty of nature and human labor.
Modern Uses
- Today, quarries are vital for supplying materials for construction, roads, and monuments.
- Advancements in technology have improved safety and efficiency in modern quarrying techniques.
- Sustainable quarrying practices are being developed to minimize environmental damage and preserve natural resources.
Origin of 'quarry'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'quadrarium,' meaning 'a place where stones are obtained'.
- It evolved into the Old French word 'quarriere' before entering the English language in the 14th century.
- Originally, 'quarry' referred to the act of seeking out game, which relates to its current definition of seeking out stone or minerals.
The word 'quarry' originated from the Latin word 'quadrārium', which means 'place where stones are squared'. In ancient times, quarries were essential for obtaining materials for construction and other purposes. Over the centuries, the methods of quarrying have evolved, from manual labor to modern machinery. Quarries have played a significant role in shaping landscapes and providing resources for various industries.