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Steeples: meaning, definitions and examples

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steeples

 

[ ˈstiːpəlz ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

church architecture

Steeples are tall, spire-like structures that are typically found on top of churches. They are often used as a visual focal point and are designed to draw the eyes of onlookers upward. Steeples can vary in size and shape, but are usually characterized by their pointy tops.

Synonyms

belfry, minaret, spire.

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Word Description / Examples
steeples

Used to refer to the tall, pointed structures on top of churches or similar buildings, often with a spire. Appropriate for architectural discussions or when describing the skyline of a small town.

  • The village church is easily recognizable by its charming steeples.
  • You can see the steeples of the cathedral from miles away.
spire

Denotes a tapering, pointed part of a building, often used atop towers, church steeples, or other structures. It is versatile and can be used in both secular and religious architectural contexts.

  • The spire of the old church is an iconic part of our town's history.
  • We noticed a beautiful spire on the new skyscraper.
belfry

Specifically references the part of a bell tower or steeple where bells are housed. Suitable for more detailed architectural descriptions, especially when the purpose of the structure is important.

  • The large, old belfry echoed with the sound of the bells.
  • Climbing up to the belfry gave us a stunning view of the city.
minaret

Used for the slender towers of a mosque from which the call to prayer is traditionally announced. This term is specific to Islamic architecture and practices.

  • The call to prayer rang out from the minaret.
  • The mosque's tall minaret dominates the skyline.

Examples of usage

  • The steeple of the church towered over the surrounding buildings.
  • The sunlight glinted off the steeple, creating a beautiful effect.
  • The steeple was visible from miles away, guiding travelers to the church.
  • The church's steeple was struck by lightning during the storm.
  • The steeple's bells rang out across the town, signaling the start of the service.

Translations

Translations of the word "steeples" in other languages:

🇵🇹 torres de igreja

🇮🇳 गिरिजाघर के शिखर

🇩🇪 Kirchtürme

🇮🇩 menara gereja

🇺🇦 дзвіниці

🇵🇱 wieże kościelne

🇯🇵 教会の尖塔

🇫🇷 clochers

🇪🇸 campanarios

🇹🇷 kilise kuleleri

🇰🇷 교회의 첨탑

🇸🇦 أبراج الكنيسة

🇨🇿 kostelní věže

🇸🇰 kostolné veže

🇨🇳 教堂尖塔

🇸🇮 cerkveni zvoniki

🇮🇸 kirkjuturnar

🇰🇿 шірке мұнаралары

🇬🇪 ეკლესიის კოშკები

🇦🇿 kilsə qüllələri

🇲🇽 campanarios

Etymology

The word 'steeple' originated in Middle English from the Old English word 'stēpel', which meant a tower or spire. Steeples have been a prominent feature of church architecture for centuries, serving as symbols of aspiration and faith. They were often built tall to draw attention to the heavens and to symbolize the connection between earth and sky.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,188, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.