Steeple: meaning, definitions and examples

Steeple is typically used to refer to the tall, pointed structure on top of a church, often housing a bell.

• The church's steeple could be seen from miles away.
• The lightning struck the steeple during the storm.

Tower is a broad term used to describe any tall, vertical structure. It can refer to various types of buildings or parts of buildings, from castles to modern skyscrapers.

• The guard stood watch in the tower.
• They visited the Eiffel Tower during their trip to Paris.

Spire is a general term for a tall, pointed structure on top of a building, often used for decorative or symbolic purposes.

• The skyscraper was topped with a sleek, modern spire.
• The ancient temple had a golden spire that glistened in the sun.

Belfry refers specifically to the part of a tower or steeple where bells are housed, and it is often used in the context of churches or other buildings with bells.

• They climbed up into the belfry to ring the bell.
• The old cathedral's belfry had a magnificent set of bells.

Commonly used to describe a tall, pointed structure on a church that often houses a bell; it emphasizes the architectural aspect.

• The steeple of the old church could be seen from miles away.
• They restored the church's steeple after it was damaged by the storm.

Refers specifically to a tower designed to hold bells, typically in churches or public buildings; neutral term without architectural implications.

• The bell tower chimed every hour, a tradition that dates back centuries.
• Visitors are welcome to tour the bell tower and see the large bells up close.

An Italian word often used in English for a free-standing bell tower, typically not attached to a building and Italian in style; emphasizes cultural and architectural uniqueness.

• The campanile of Pisa is one of the most famous structures in the world.
• The university's campanile is a landmark visible from many parts of the city.