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Catacomb - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

A catacomb is an underground burial place with tunnels and chambers, often used in ancient times. It is associated with tombs, history, and sometimes religious significance.

catacomb

/ˈkætəˌkoʊm/ /ˈkætəkuːm/

Definition:

Underground burial chambers with tunnels and recesses for tombs.

Synonyms:

crypt, tomb, sepulcher, catacombs (plural)

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

surface cemetery, aboveground tomb

Common Collocations:

ancient catacombs, explore catacombs, Paris catacombs, dark catacombs, labyrinthine catacombs

Derivatives:

catacombal (rare), catacombic (rare)

Usage Tips:

Use "catacomb" to describe historic underground burial sites, often plural ("catacombs").

Common Phrases:

lost in the catacombs, the depths of the catacombs, eerie as a catacomb

Etymology:

From Latin "catacumba," likely referring to underground cemeteries near Rome.

Examples:

  • 1. The ancient catacombs stretch for miles beneath the city.
  • 2. Tourists often visit the Paris catacombs for their eerie atmosphere.
  • 3. The archaeologists discovered a hidden chamber in the catacomb.
  • 4. Legends say ghosts haunt these dark and winding catacombs.

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