Romanesque: meaning, definitions and examples

🏰

Add to dictionary

romanesque

[rəʊˈmænɛsk ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

architecture

Relating to or denoting a style of architecture that was prevalent in Western Europe in the 11th and 12th centuries, characterized by round arches and a heavy, solid appearance.

Synonyms

Byzantine, Gothic, medieval.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
romanesque	Used to describe European architecture that developed in the late 10th century and featured semi-circular arches, thick walls, and sturdy construction. This term is often used in discussions about historical buildings and art history. The cathedral's romanesque design is evident in its robust and solid structure. We visited a museum that featured romanesque sculptures from the 11th century.
medieval	A general term for anything related to the Middle Ages, from the 5th to the late 15th century. This term is used in historical contexts to describe events, culture, architecture, and literature from that period. The castle is a fine example of medieval military architecture. They enjoyed a lecture on medieval society and its customs.
Gothic	Describes the style of architecture and art that flourished in Europe from the 12th to the 16th centuries, characterized by pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses. It is often used in discussions about medieval buildings and literature. The Gothic cathedral's towering spires evoke a sense of awe and majesty. He studied Gothic literature, fascinated by its dark and mysterious themes.
Byzantine	Refers to the architecture, art, and culture of the Eastern Roman Empire, especially noted for its elaborate and detailed design, complex mosaics, and domes. This term is frequently used in artistic and historical contexts. The church was adorned with Byzantine mosaics that glittered under the light. She wrote a detailed essay about Byzantine influence on early medieval art.

Examples of usage

The Romanesque cathedral featured thick walls and round arches.
The Romanesque style of architecture was popular in the Middle Ages.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

art

Relating to or denoting a style of art and architecture that developed in Europe in the 11th century, characterized by a revival of Roman forms, such as the use of arches and columns.

Synonyms

Byzantine, Gothic, medieval.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
romanesque	Use the word 'romanesque' to describe a style of architecture and art that was common in Europe during the 9th to the 12th centuries, characterized by semi-circular arches, thick walls, and sturdy pillars. The romanesque church had thick walls and semi-circular arches. You can see romanesque influences in the heavy stone construction of the old monastery.
medieval	Use 'medieval' to refer to anything related to the Middle Ages, the period from the 5th to the late 15th century in European history. It can describe culture, architecture, practices, or anything from that time. The museum has an extensive collection of medieval armor and weaponry. Some of the medieval practices in medicine seem quite barbaric by today's standards.
Gothic	The word 'Gothic' is often used to describe a style of architecture that flourished in Europe during the late Middle Ages, known for its pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses. It can also refer to a genre of literature that involves dark, mysterious, and horror elements. The Gothic cathedral towered above the city with its pointed arches and flying buttresses. She was a fan of Gothic novels that had elements of horror and mystery.
Byzantine	Use the word 'Byzantine' to refer to the Eastern Roman Empire or the art and architecture from that region, characterized by domes, mosaics, and elaborate detailing. It can also mean something very complex or intricate in a negative way. The Byzantine mosaics on the walls of the cathedral were breathtaking. Her approach to the project was so byzantine that it left everyone confused.

Examples of usage

The Romanesque paintings in the church depicted biblical scenes.
The Romanesque sculptures were highly detailed and ornate.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

This style emerged in the early Middle Ages, primarily influenced by Roman architecture.
The name 'romanesque' literally means 'in the Roman manner,' reflecting its roots.
Romanesque cathedrals were built to be solid and are often associated with monasteries.

Architectural Features

Structures often have rounded arches, thick walls, and barrel vaults, designed to support heavy roofs.
Decoration was frequently achieved through sculpted figures and ornate capitals on columns.
The style focuses on symmetry and stability, creating a sense of permanence in buildings.

Art and Culture

Frescoes and mosaic artworks from the romanesque period communicated biblical stories to uneducated masses.
This period saw the rise of illuminated manuscripts, which combined art and text in religious scripts.
The romanesque style influenced the development of Gothic architecture in the later centuries.

Influential Examples

The Abbey Church of Saint-Savin, located in France, showcases the classic elements of the style.
Durham Cathedral in England is renowned for its rib-vaulted ceilings – an advancement during this period.
The Basilica of Saint-Sernin in Toulouse, France, is one of the largest and most famous examples of romanesque architecture.

Symbolism and Spirituality

Romanesque buildings served not just as places of worship, but also as symbols of community and power.
The layout of churches often symbolizes a path from earthly life to spiritual ascent, with the altar as the focal point.
Art within these structures was meant to evoke a sense of divine presence and connection with God.

Translations

Translations of the word "romanesque" in other languages:

🇵🇹 românico

🇮🇳 रोमांस शैली

🇩🇪 romanisch

🇮🇩 romanis

🇺🇦 романський

🇵🇱 romański

🇯🇵 ロマン様式

🇫🇷 roman

🇪🇸 románico

🇹🇷 romanesk

🇰🇷 로마네스크

🇸🇦 رومانسي

🇨🇿 románský

🇸🇰 románsky

🇨🇳 罗曼式

🇸🇮 romanski

🇮🇸 rómantískur

🇰🇿 романдық

🇬🇪 რომანული

🇦🇿 romantik

🇲🇽 románico

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,805, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.

...
37802 wimpy
37803 plowshare
37804 transfix
37805 romanesque
37806 genealogically
37807 verrucae
37808 boggled
...