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Steeple - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

A steeple is a tall, pointed structure on top of a building, often a church, used for decoration or to hold bells. It is a distinctive feature of many religious and historical buildings.

steeple

/ˈstipəl/ /ˈstiːpəl/

Definition:

A tall, pointed structure on top of a church or building, often housing bells.

Synonyms:

spire, tower, belfry

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

base, foundation

Common Collocations:

church steeple, steeple bell, steeple chase

Derivatives:

steepled, steepling

Usage Tips:

Use "steeple" to describe the pointed top of a church or similar structure; avoid confusion with "spire," which is narrower.

Common Phrases:

steeple chase, climbing the steeple, steeple bells ringing

Etymology:

From Old English "stēpel," meaning a high tower or spire, related to "stēap" (high, lofty).

Examples:

  • 1. The church steeple towered over the village.
  • 2. We could hear the bells from the steeple every morning.
  • 3. The old steeple was damaged in the storm last night.
  • 4. She pointed to the steeple visible above the trees.

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