Tower: meaning, definitions and examples

This term is often used to describe a tall, narrow building or structure, which can be part of a larger building like a castle, church, or office block. It can also signify a place that provides a good view or is used for surveillance.

• The ancient castle had a tall watchtower.
• She could see the whole city from the observation tower.

This is a general term for any constructed entity, regardless of its size or purpose. It is a broad, neutral term that can be applied to buildings, bridges, towers, etc.

• The new bridge is a remarkable steel structure.
• They are planning to build a structure that will house the new community center.

Use this word to refer to a very tall, modern building, usually found in a city and used for offices or apartments. It often implies a sense of awe due to its impressive height.

• The downtown area is filled with gleaming skyscrapers.
• They moved into a luxurious apartment in a new skyscraper.

This word often refers to the pointed, typically conical or pyramidal top of a building, commonly seen on churches, temples, and some historical buildings. It adds a decorative, elegant touch to the architecture.

• The cathedral is known for its magnificent spire.
• A spire topped the ancient temple, reaching towards the sky.

Used to describe a tall, often freestanding structure designed for a variety of purposes including observation, storage, or signaling.

• The old castle had a tall tower that provided a view for miles around.
• They built a new tower to house the water tank.

Usually used to describe a central point for controlling or managing operations, often related to technology, space missions, or emergency services.

• The NASA control center monitored all the spacecraft activities.
• The city's traffic control center uses cameras and sensors to manage traffic flow.

Specifically used to refer to a structure designed for observation and surveillance, usually taller than the surrounding area to provide a clear view.

• Tourists climbed the observation tower to get a panoramic view of the city.
• The forest rangers used the observation tower to watch for wildfires.

Typically used in a military or emergency response context to refer to a central location where commanders can coordinate operations and make strategic decisions.

• The general set up a command post to oversee the battlefield operations.
• During the wildfire, the firefighters established a command post to manage the response.

Best used to describe something that is very tall and stands out from its surroundings, often in a physical sense.

• The skyscraper towers above the city
• The ancient oak tree towers over the other trees in the forest

Use to describe something rising quickly and smoothly, often used for things like prices, emotions, or birds in flight.

• The eagle soars high in the sky
• The stock prices soared after the announcement

Describes a person, group, or thing that exerts power or control over others; can have a negative connotation if it implies oppression or unfair control.

• The company has managed to dominate the tech market
• The alpha wolf dominates the pack

Best used when one thing exceeds or goes beyond another in achievement or quality, often highlighting a sense of improvement or excellence.

• She has surpassed all expectations with her performance
• The new model surpasses its predecessor in terms of speed and design