Steeple: meaning, definitions and examples
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steeple
[ˈstiːpəl ]
Definitions
architecture
A tall, pointed structure on top of a building, especially a church tower.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| steeple |
Steeple is typically used to refer to the tall, pointed structure on top of a church, often housing a bell.
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| tower |
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.
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| spire |
Spire is a general term for a tall, pointed structure on top of a building, often used for decorative or symbolic purposes.
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| belfry |
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.
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Examples of usage
- The steeple of the cathedral soared into the sky.
- The steeple could be seen from miles away.
religion
A tower or spire on a church, often with a bell.
Synonyms
bell tower, campanile.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| steeple |
Commonly used to describe a tall, pointed structure on a church that often houses a bell; it emphasizes the architectural aspect.
|
| bell tower |
Refers specifically to a tower designed to hold bells, typically in churches or public buildings; neutral term without architectural implications.
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| campanile |
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.
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Examples of usage
- The church bells rang from the steeple.
- The steeple was a landmark in the town.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The word 'steeple' comes from the Old English word 'styepel', which means 'pillar or post'.
- Steeples became popular in Europe during the Middle Ages as a way to draw attention to churches and symbolize reaching towards heaven.
- In medieval architecture, the height of a steeple often reflected the wealth and importance of the church in the community.
Architecture
- Steeples come in various styles, including Gothic, Baroque, and Modern, each reflecting different artistic movements.
- Many steeples serve functional purposes, such as housing bells that ring for services or signaling the time.
- The tallest steeple in the world is the Ulm Minster in Germany, reaching an impressive height of 161.5 meters (530 feet).
Cultural Significance
- Steeples are often seen as symbols of hope and faith, commonly depicted in literature and art as representations of spirituality.
- In community events, steeples often serve as landmarks, guiding people to gather for celebrations or memorials.
- Some steeples have been used for more than just religious purposes, like serving as lookout points or even homes for certain wildlife.
Pop Culture
- Steeples and churches frequently appear in movies and literature as backdrops for important life events, such as weddings and funerals.
- Songs and poems often mention steeples to evoke a sense of nostalgia or connection to faith and community.
- In video games, steeples are sometimes used as quest locations or points of interest that symbolize moral choices.
Geography
- Steeples can vary significantly by region, with certain styles being more prevalent in specific countries, like the onion domes in Russia.
- In urban areas, steeples often compete visually with skyscrapers, showing a blend of historical and modern architecture.
- In rural regions, steeples may stand out as prominent features of the landscape, acting as guides for travelers.
Translations
Translations of the word "steeple" in other languages:
🇵🇹 campanário
🇮🇳 मीनार
🇩🇪 Kirchturm
🇮🇩 menara gereja
🇺🇦 дзвіниця
🇵🇱 wieża kościelna
🇯🇵 尖塔 (sentou)
🇫🇷 clocher
🇪🇸 campanario
🇹🇷 çan kulesi
🇰🇷 첨탑 (cheomtap)
🇸🇦 برج الكنيسة
🇨🇿 kostelní věž
🇸🇰 kostolná veža
🇨🇳 尖顶 (jiāndǐng)
🇸🇮 cerkveni zvonik
🇮🇸 klukkuturn
🇰🇿 шірке мұнарасы
🇬🇪 ეკლესიის კოშკი
🇦🇿 kilsə qülləsi
🇲🇽 campanario