Stela - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
A stela is an upright stone slab or pillar, often inscribed or carved, used in ancient times as a monument, grave marker, or for commemorative purposes.
Definition:
An upright stone slab or pillar, often inscribed, used as a monument or marker.
Synonyms:
obelisk, monolith, pillar, tablet
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
blank space, void
Common Collocations:
ancient stela, inscribed stela, commemorative stela, granite stela
Derivatives:
stelae (plural), stelar (adjective)
Usage Tips:
Use "stela" to refer to ancient inscribed stones; plural is "stelae."
Common Phrases:
broken stela, weathered stela, ceremonial stela
Etymology:
From Greek "stēlē," meaning "pillar" or "upright block."
Examples:
- 1. The archaeologists uncovered a weathered stela near the temple ruins.
- 2. The museum displayed an ancient Egyptian stela with hieroglyphics.
- 3. A commemorative stela marked the king’s victory in battle.
- 4. The broken stela was carefully restored by experts.