Oubliette - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
An oubliette is a secret dungeon with only a ceiling opening, used in medieval castles to imprison people and leave them forgotten. It symbolizes isolation and abandonment.
Definition:
A secret dungeon with a trapdoor as the only entrance, often used for imprisonment.
Synonyms:
dungeon, prison, cell, vault
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
freedom, liberation
Common Collocations:
dark oubliette, medieval oubliette, castle oubliette
Derivatives:
oubliettes (plural), oublietted (rare)
Usage Tips:
Use "oubliette" to describe a hidden or forgotten prison, often in historical or Gothic contexts.
Common Phrases:
thrown into the oubliette, forgotten in the oubliette
Etymology:
From French "oubliette," derived from "oublier" (to forget), reflecting its purpose of forgetting prisoners.
Examples:
- 1. The castle's oubliette held prisoners for decades unnoticed.
- 2. Legends say the old tower hides an ancient oubliette.
- 3. She shuddered at the thought of being trapped in an oubliette.
- 4. The villain locked his enemies in a dark oubliette beneath the palace.