Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Spires Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🏰
Add to dictionary

spires

[spaɪərz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

architecture

The pointed, tapering structures on top of a building, especially a church or castle, often used for decoration or to support a roof.

Synonyms

pinnacles, steeples, towers.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
spires

Typically used to describe the pointed, conical structures on top of buildings, often associated with churches or gothic architecture.

  • The cathedral's impressive spires reached high into the sky
  • The spires of the old building could be seen from miles away
towers

General term for tall structures, either part of a building or standing alone. Can be used for both ancient and modern constructions, and also metaphorically.

  • The ancient watch towers were built to defend the city
  • Modern office towers dominate the city's skyline
steeples

Specifically used to describe the tall, pointed structures on top of churches, often incorporating a bell tower.

  • The village was known for its picturesque steeples
  • The church steeple was visible from the town square
pinnacles

Refers to the highest point or peak, often used metaphorically to describe the climax or best part of something. It can also describe tall, pointed formations, both natural and man-made.

  • The climbers reached the pinnacle of the mountain after a grueling ascent
  • Her career reached its pinnacle with the award-winning performance

Examples of usage

  • The cathedral's spires reached towards the sky.
  • The spires of the castle were visible from miles away.
Context #2 | Noun

botany

The slender, elongated part of a plant such as a fir tree, especially when forming part of the flower.

Synonyms

shoots, stalks, stems.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
spires

See above entry for 'spires'.
stalks

Stalks commonly refer to the main stems of herbaceous plants or the parts of plants that support flowers and leaves. It can also describe long, slender parts of plants like celery stalks.

  • The sunflower has a thick, sturdy stalk that supports its large flower.
  • She sliced a stalk of celery and added it to the salad.
stems

Stems are the main structural parts of plants that support leaves, flowers, and fruits. They can be used to discuss a plant's overall structure and transport system for nutrients and water.

  • The rose's long stems were covered with tiny thorns.
  • Botanists study how water moves through plant stems to better understand plant physiology.
shoots

Shoots refer to the new growth from a plant, such as young branches or sprouts that emerge from seeds. This term is often used in gardening and agriculture.

  • In spring, the garden was full of green shoots emerging from the soil.
  • The bamboo plant grows rapidly, with new shoots appearing almost overnight.

Examples of usage

  • The spires of the fir tree added a touch of elegance to the garden.
  • The delicate spires of the foxglove swayed in the breeze.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Architecture

  • Spires are often found on churches and cathedrals, symbolizing a connection between the earth and the heavens.
  • Many Gothic cathedrals include spires, which were designed to draw the eye upwards, creating a sense of awe.
  • Some spires serve practical purposes, like housing bells or antennas, in addition to their decorative function.

History

  • In medieval Europe, spires became popular as symbols of wealth and power, often added to newly built churches.
  • The tallest spire in the world, the Burj Khalifa's pinnacle, reaches over 800 meters high, showcasing modern architectural advancement.
  • Throughout history, many empires used spires in their constructions to represent their dominance and religious beliefs.

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, spires are seen as symbols of hope and spiritual ascent, often incorporated into religious iconography.
  • Asian architecture often features pagoda-like spires, which symbolize the connection between the heavens and the earth.
  • Spires in some cultures are believed to ward off evil spirits or represent the protective presence of deities.

Art

  • Spires are a frequent subject in paintings and photographs, often representing grandeur and beauty.
  • Some artists use the image of spires to symbolize aspiration, wanting to reach higher in life or creativity.
  • Famous architectural artworks often emphasize the grandeur of spires to depict religious and cultural significance.

Literature

  • Spires often appear in literary descriptions as metaphors for hope, ambition, or the divine.
  • In poetry, the imagery of spires is used to evoke feelings of elevation, purity, and connection to the infinite.
  • Classic novels set in urban landscapes frequently describe city skylines dotted with spires, enhancing the atmosphere of the setting.

Origin of 'spires'

The word 'spires' originates from the Old English word 'spir', meaning a stalk or blade of grass. Over time, it evolved to refer to the pointed structures on top of buildings. Spires have been a prominent feature in architecture for centuries, symbolizing height, elegance, and aspiration.

See also: conspire, perspire, transpire.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,063, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.